Nuclear Engineers in California
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | California | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $167,660 | $127,520 | +31.5% vs US |
| State Rank | #2 of 24 states | Top 10 state | |
| Employment | 870 jobs | 14,740 jobs | 5.9% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in California
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $132,510 | $63.71 |
| 25th Percentile | $165,900 | $79.76 |
| Median | $167,660 | $80.60 |
| 75th Percentile | $187,430 | $90.11 |
| 90th Percentile | $201,910 | $97.07 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Nuclear Engineers in California in 2026?
With a median salary of $167,660 in California and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +24.5%, nuclear engineers are still in strong and growing demand.
How can nuclear engineers increase their salary in California?
Nuclear Engineers 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 24 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 Nuclear Engineers in California?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Administrative and Support Services | $158,080 |
| Administrative and Support Services | $158,080 |
| Local Government, excluding Schools and Hospitals (OEWS Designation) | $143,540 |
How are Nuclear Engineers paid in California compared to the national average?
The median salary for Nuclear Engineers in California is $167,660, which is 31.5% above the national median of $127,520.