Urban and Regional Planners in California
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | California | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $105,230 | $83,720 | +25.7% vs US |
| State Rank | #2 of 53 states | Top 10 state | |
| Employment | 7,630 jobs | 43,040 jobs | 17.7% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in California
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $73,710 | $35.44 |
| 25th Percentile | $86,210 | $41.45 |
| Median | $105,230 | $50.59 |
| 75th Percentile | $129,880 | $62.44 |
| 90th Percentile | $159,960 | $76.90 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Urban and Regional Planners in California in 2026?
With a median salary of $105,230 in California and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +32.0%, urban and regional planners are still in strong and growing demand.
How can urban and regional planners increase their salary in California?
Urban and Regional Planners 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 53 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 Urban and Regional Planners in California?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Utilities | $122,010 |
| Utilities | $122,010 |
| Federal Executive Branch (OEWS Designation) | $114,970 |
How are Urban and Regional Planners paid in California compared to the national average?
The median salary for Urban and Regional Planners in California is $105,230, which is 25.7% above the national median of $83,720.