Atmospheric and Space Scientists in California
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | California | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $117,770 | $97,450 | +20.9% vs US |
| State Rank | #2 of 45 states | Top 10 state | |
| Employment | 580 jobs | 8,780 jobs | 6.6% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in California
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $74,630 | $35.88 |
| 25th Percentile | $99,860 | $48.01 |
| Median | $117,770 | $56.62 |
| 75th Percentile | $141,370 | $67.96 |
| 90th Percentile | $178,280 | $85.71 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Atmospheric and Space Scientists in California in 2026?
With a median salary of $117,770 in California and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +25.6%, atmospheric and space scientists are still in strong and growing demand.
How can atmospheric and space scientists increase their salary in California?
Atmospheric and Space Scientists 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 #2 out of 45 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 Atmospheric and Space Scientists in California?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Federal Executive Branch (OEWS Designation) | $120,640 |
| Federal Executive Branch (OEWS Designation) | $120,640 |
| Federal, State, and Local Government, excluding State and Local Government Schools and Hospitals and the U.S. Postal Service (OEWS Designation) | $119,040 |
How are Atmospheric and Space Scientists paid in California compared to the national average?
The median salary for Atmospheric and Space Scientists in California is $117,770, which is 20.9% above the national median of $97,450.