Sociologists in California
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | California | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $120,610 | $101,690 | +18.6% vs US |
| State Rank | #4 of 13 states | Top 10 state | |
| Employment | 660 jobs | 2,950 jobs | 22.4% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in California
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $80,930 | $38.91 |
| 25th Percentile | $96,260 | $46.28 |
| Median | $120,610 | $57.99 |
| 75th Percentile | $132,200 | $63.56 |
| 90th Percentile | $157,010 | $75.49 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Sociologists in California in 2026?
With a median salary of $120,610 in California and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +46.5%, sociologists are still in strong and growing demand.
How can sociologists increase their salary in California?
Sociologists 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 #4 out of 13 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 Sociologists in California?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences | $144,760 |
| Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences | $144,760 |
| Social Advocacy Organizations | $135,230 |
How are Sociologists paid in California compared to the national average?
The median salary for Sociologists in California is $120,610, which is 18.6% above the national median of $101,690.