Compensation and Benefits Managers in California
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | California | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $160,740 | $140,360 | +14.5% vs US |
| State Rank | #8 of 44 states | Top 10 state | |
| Employment | 2,840 jobs | 20,070 jobs | 14.2% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in California
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $97,020 | $46.64 |
| 25th Percentile | $123,390 | $59.32 |
| Median | $160,740 | $77.28 |
| 75th Percentile | $214,680 | $103.21 |
| 90th Percentile | — | — |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Compensation and Benefits Managers in California in 2026?
With a median salary of $160,740 in California and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +32.9%, compensation and benefits managers are still in strong and growing demand.
How can compensation and benefits managers increase their salary in California?
Compensation and Benefits Managers 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 #8 out of 44 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 Compensation and Benefits Managers in California?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing | $224,660 |
| Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing | $224,660 |
| Software Publishers | $214,220 |
How are Compensation and Benefits Managers paid in California compared to the national average?
The median salary for Compensation and Benefits Managers in California is $160,740, which is 14.5% above the national median of $140,360.