Archivists in California
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | California | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $62,160 | $61,570 | +1.0% vs US |
| State Rank | #14 of 40 states | Top 20 state | |
| Employment | 860 jobs | 7,050 jobs | 12.2% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in California
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $38,980 | $18.74 |
| 25th Percentile | $42,960 | $20.65 |
| Median | $62,160 | $29.88 |
| 75th Percentile | $81,120 | $39.00 |
| 90th Percentile | $117,400 | $56.44 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Archivists in California in 2026?
With a median salary of $62,160 in California and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +25.0%, archivists are still in strong and growing demand.
How can archivists increase their salary in California?
Archivists in California can increase earnings by targeting higher-paying industries which tend to offer compensation well above the state median. Additionally, relocating to a higher-paying state could offer a significant income boost: California currently ranks #14 out of 40 states for this occupation. Pursuing advanced credentials, specializations, or roles with greater responsibility are proven ways to move toward the 75th or 90th percentile of earners.
Which industries pay the most for Archivists in California?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Other Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services | $118,450 |
| Federal Executive Branch (OEWS Designation) | $109,120 |
| Media Streaming Distribution Services, Social Networks, and Other Media Networks and Content Providers | $102,280 |
How are Archivists paid in California compared to the national average?
The median salary for Archivists in California is $62,160, which is roughly in line with the national median of $61,570.