Materials Scientists in California
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | California | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $131,530 | $104,160 | +26.3% vs US |
| State Rank | #2 of 30 states | Top 10 state | |
| Employment | 610 jobs | 8,330 jobs | 7.3% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in California
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $57,030 | $27.42 |
| 25th Percentile | $96,510 | $46.40 |
| Median | $131,530 | $63.24 |
| 75th Percentile | $158,290 | $76.10 |
| 90th Percentile | $182,860 | $87.91 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Materials Scientists in California in 2026?
With a median salary of $131,530 in California and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +33.8%, materials scientists are still in strong and growing demand.
How can materials scientists increase their salary in California?
Materials 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 #2 out of 30 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 Materials Scientists in California?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Navigational, Measuring, Electromedical, and Control Instruments Manufacturing | $141,050 |
| Chemical Manufacturing (3251, 3252, 3253, and 3259 only) | $137,520 |
| Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing | $135,830 |
How are Materials Scientists paid in California compared to the national average?
The median salary for Materials Scientists in California is $131,530, which is 26.3% above the national median of $104,160.