Computer Programmers in California
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | California | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $116,220 | $98,670 | +17.8% vs US |
| State Rank | #5 of 52 states | Top 10 state | |
| Employment | 14,720 jobs | 109,870 jobs | 13.4% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in California
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $65,510 | $31.49 |
| 25th Percentile | $82,030 | $39.44 |
| Median | $116,220 | $55.87 |
| 75th Percentile | $150,970 | $72.58 |
| 90th Percentile | $176,990 | $85.09 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Computer Programmers in California in 2026?
With a median salary of $116,220 in California and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +35.1%, computer programmers are still in strong and growing demand.
How can computer programmers increase their salary in California?
Computer Programmers 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 #5 out of 52 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 Programmers in California?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Furniture and Home Furnishings Retailers | $161,680 |
| Natural Gas Distribution | $156,780 |
| Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences | $154,790 |
How are Computer Programmers paid in California compared to the national average?
The median salary for Computer Programmers in California is $116,220, which is 17.8% above the national median of $98,670.