Biochemists and Biophysicists in California
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | California | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $130,240 | $103,650 | +25.7% vs US |
| State Rank | #3 of 32 states | Top 10 state | |
| Employment | 4,190 jobs | 34,520 jobs | 12.1% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in California
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $76,320 | $36.69 |
| 25th Percentile | $93,000 | $44.71 |
| Median | $130,240 | $62.62 |
| 75th Percentile | $160,580 | $77.20 |
| 90th Percentile | $179,780 | $86.43 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Biochemists and Biophysicists in California in 2026?
With a median salary of $130,240 in California and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +35.1%, biochemists and biophysicists are still in strong and growing demand.
How can biochemists and biophysicists increase their salary in California?
Biochemists and Biophysicists 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 #3 out of 32 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 Biochemists and Biophysicists in California?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Research and Development in the Social Sciences and Humanities | $134,810 |
| Merchant Wholesalers, Nondurable Goods (4242 and 4246 only) | $132,500 |
| Merchant Wholesalers, Nondurable Goods | $132,490 |
How are Biochemists and Biophysicists paid in California compared to the national average?
The median salary for Biochemists and Biophysicists in California is $130,240, which is 25.7% above the national median of $103,650.