Slaughterers and Meat Packers in California
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | California | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $38,660 | $39,790 | -2.8% vs US |
| State Rank | #28 of 48 states | ||
| Employment | 6,830 jobs | 67,500 jobs | 10.1% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in California
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $36,840 | $17.71 |
| 25th Percentile | $37,980 | $18.26 |
| Median | $38,660 | $18.59 |
| 75th Percentile | $44,980 | $21.63 |
| 90th Percentile | $47,960 | $23.06 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Slaughterers and Meat Packers in California in 2026?
With a median salary of $38,660 in California and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +57.9%, slaughterers and meat packers are still in strong and growing demand.
How can slaughterers and meat packers increase their salary in California?
Slaughterers and Meat Packers 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 #28 out of 48 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 Slaughterers and Meat Packers in California?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Animal Slaughtering and Processing | $40,170 |
| Food Manufacturing | $40,080 |
| Animal Food Manufacturing | $39,860 |
How are Slaughterers and Meat Packers paid in California compared to the national average?
The median salary for Slaughterers and Meat Packers in California is $38,660, which is 2.8% below the national median of $39,790.