Solar Photovoltaic Installers in California
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | California | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $60,790 | $51,860 | +17.2% vs US |
| State Rank | #6 of 28 states | Top 10 state | |
| Employment | 8,970 jobs | 28,280 jobs | 31.7% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in California
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $48,050 | $23.10 |
| 25th Percentile | $53,510 | $25.73 |
| Median | $60,790 | $29.23 |
| 75th Percentile | $77,220 | $37.12 |
| 90th Percentile | $94,890 | $45.62 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Solar Photovoltaic Installers in California in 2026?
With a median salary of $60,790 in California and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +46.3%, solar photovoltaic installers are still in strong and growing demand.
How can solar photovoltaic installers increase their salary in California?
Solar Photovoltaic Installers 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 #6 out of 28 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 Solar Photovoltaic Installers in California?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Wind Electric Power Generation | $69,340 |
| Wind Electric Power Generation | $69,340 |
| Architectural, Engineering, and Related Services | $65,890 |
How are Solar Photovoltaic Installers paid in California compared to the national average?
The median salary for Solar Photovoltaic Installers in California is $60,790, which is 17.2% above the national median of $51,860.