Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists in California
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | California | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $131,430 | $100,590 | +30.7% vs US |
| State Rank | #1 of 49 states | Top 10 state | |
| Employment | 24,190 jobs | 156,300 jobs | 15.5% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in California
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $80,480 | $38.69 |
| 25th Percentile | $105,670 | $50.80 |
| Median | $131,430 | $63.19 |
| 75th Percentile | $156,960 | $75.46 |
| 90th Percentile | $169,080 | $81.29 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists in California in 2026?
With a median salary of $131,430 in California and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +33.8%, medical scientists, except epidemiologists are still in strong and growing demand.
How can medical scientists, except epidemiologists increase their salary in California?
Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists 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 #1 out of 49 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 Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists in California?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Wholesale Trade Agents and Brokers | $182,190 |
| Wholesale Trade Agents and Brokers | $182,190 |
| Manufacturing and Reproducing Magnetic and Optical Media | $176,970 |
How are Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists paid in California compared to the national average?
The median salary for Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists in California is $131,430, which is 30.7% above the national median of $100,590.