Railroad Conductors and Yardmasters in California
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | California | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $67,550 | $74,080 | -8.8% vs US |
| State Rank | #22 of 36 states | ||
| Employment | 1,390 jobs | 42,710 jobs | 3.3% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in California
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $67,010 | $32.22 |
| 25th Percentile | $67,390 | $32.40 |
| Median | $67,550 | $32.48 |
| 75th Percentile | $74,360 | $35.75 |
| 90th Percentile | $104,690 | $50.33 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Railroad Conductors and Yardmasters in California in 2026?
With a median salary of $67,550 in California and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +33.9%, railroad conductors and yardmasters are still in strong and growing demand.
How can railroad conductors and yardmasters increase their salary in California?
Railroad Conductors and Yardmasters 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 #22 out of 36 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 Railroad Conductors and Yardmasters in California?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| State Government, excluding Schools and Hospitals (OEWS Designation) | $90,860 |
| State Government, excluding Schools and Hospitals (OEWS Designation) | $90,860 |
| Federal, State, and Local Government, excluding State and Local Government Schools and Hospitals and the U.S. Postal Service (OEWS Designation) | $78,050 |
How are Railroad Conductors and Yardmasters paid in California compared to the national average?
The median salary for Railroad Conductors and Yardmasters in California is $67,550, which is 8.8% below the national median of $74,080.