Buyers and Purchasing Agents in California
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | California | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $79,570 | $75,650 | +5.2% vs US |
| State Rank | #10 of 54 states | Top 10 state | |
| Employment | 46,790 jobs | 486,900 jobs | 9.6% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in California
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $49,640 | $23.87 |
| 25th Percentile | $62,650 | $30.12 |
| Median | $79,570 | $38.26 |
| 75th Percentile | $103,490 | $49.76 |
| 90th Percentile | $133,550 | $64.21 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Buyers and Purchasing Agents in California in 2026?
With a median salary of $79,570 in California and a 2017–2024 salary trend of +23.4%, buyers and purchasing agents are still in strong and growing demand.
How can buyers and purchasing agents increase their salary in California?
Buyers and Purchasing Agents 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 #10 out of 54 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 Buyers and Purchasing Agents in California?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Taxi and Limousine Service | $132,100 |
| Taxi and Limousine Service | $132,100 |
| Oil and Gas Extraction | $126,400 |
How are Buyers and Purchasing Agents paid in California compared to the national average?
The median salary for Buyers and Purchasing Agents in California is $79,570, which is 5.2% above the national median of $75,650.