Human Resources Managers in California
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | California | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $169,140 | $140,030 | +20.8% vs US |
| State Rank | #5 of 54 states | Top 10 state | |
| Employment | 27,680 jobs | 215,520 jobs | 12.8% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in California
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $97,620 | $46.93 |
| 25th Percentile | $127,510 | $61.30 |
| Median | $169,140 | $81.32 |
| 75th Percentile | $225,080 | $108.21 |
| 90th Percentile | — | — |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Human Resources Managers in California in 2026?
With a median salary of $169,140 in California and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +45.4%, human resources managers are still in strong and growing demand.
How can human resources managers increase their salary in California?
Human Resources 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 #5 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 Human Resources Managers in California?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Taxi and Limousine Service | $237,250 |
| Taxi and Limousine Service | $237,250 |
| Other Investment Pools and Funds | $221,570 |
How are Human Resources Managers paid in California compared to the national average?
The median salary for Human Resources Managers in California is $169,140, which is 20.8% above the national median of $140,030.