Computer and Information Research Scientists in California
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | California | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $156,290 | $140,910 | +10.9% vs US |
| State Rank | #9 of 39 states | Top 10 state | |
| Employment | 8,570 jobs | 38,480 jobs | 22.3% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in California
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $83,100 | $39.95 |
| 25th Percentile | $106,080 | $51.00 |
| Median | $156,290 | $75.14 |
| 75th Percentile | $202,260 | $97.24 |
| 90th Percentile | — | — |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Computer and Information Research Scientists in California in 2026?
With a median salary of $156,290 in California and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +34.8%, computer and information research scientists are still in strong and growing demand.
How can computer and information research scientists increase their salary in California?
Computer and Information Research 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 #9 out of 39 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 Computer and Information Research Scientists in California?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Publishing Industries | $237,990 |
| Publishing Industries | $237,990 |
| Software Publishers | $237,990 |
How are Computer and Information Research Scientists paid in California compared to the national average?
The median salary for Computer and Information Research Scientists in California is $156,290, which is 10.9% above the national median of $140,910.