The highest paying jobs in California are mostly divided between the tech and health sectors, while people in Hollywood continue to make outrageous amounts of money.

The state’s thriving economy, driven by innovation, medicine, and technology, rewards professionals who possess exceptional expertise, advanced education, and leadership skills. From surgeons and executives to engineers and IT specialists, these high-earning roles reflect California’s demand for excellence, creativity, and problem-solving — qualities that continue to shape its reputation as a global center of opportunity.

Top 100 Highest-Paying Jobs in California

1. Anesthesiologist

Anesthesiologists are among California’s highest earners, responsible for administering anesthesia and monitoring patients during surgery. Their expertise ensures safety in complex medical procedures across hospitals and surgical centers. Extensive education, including medical school and residency, is required. High salaries reflect the responsibility, precision, and long hours this critical role demands, especially in large healthcare systems and private surgical practices concentrated in urban areas such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego.

2. Surgeon (All Other)

Surgeons perform intricate operations to treat injuries, diseases, and deformities. In California, they command premium salaries, especially in orthopedics, neurosurgery, and cardiovascular specialties. The job requires years of education, training, and intense focus. With the state’s leading hospitals and medical research centers, surgeons often work with cutting-edge technology and multidisciplinary teams. High compensation matches the skill, precision, and decision-making responsibilities that come with saving lives under high-pressure conditions.

3. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon

These specialists perform surgery on the mouth, jaw, and face, often collaborating with dentists and plastic surgeons. In California, where cosmetic and reconstructive procedures are in high demand, oral surgeons earn exceptional salaries. Their work includes treating facial trauma, correcting jaw misalignment, and performing dental implants. Extensive medical and dental training, along with surgical residency, is required. Their earnings reflect the combination of medical expertise and precision required in both aesthetic and functional procedures.

4. Orthodontist

Orthodontists correct dental and facial irregularities, using braces, aligners, and other devices to improve oral function and aesthetics. California’s strong demand for cosmetic dentistry contributes to their high pay. They often operate private practices in high-income regions such as Los Angeles, Orange County, and Silicon Valley. With advanced dental training and specialized orthodontic certification, their work enhances both health and confidence, making this one of the most financially rewarding dental professions in the state.

5. Psychiatrist

Psychiatrists diagnose and treat mental health disorders through therapy, medication, and counseling. In California, they are among the top-earning physicians due to high demand for mental health services. Many work in hospitals, clinics, or private practices. The role requires a medical degree, psychiatric residency, and board certification. Given California’s population density and increasing focus on mental wellness, psychiatrists benefit from a combination of clinical need, flexibility, and opportunities for private practice income.

6. Chief Executive (Hospital/Health System)

Chief Executives in California’s major hospital networks oversee operations, budgets, and strategic direction. They balance medical excellence with business performance, managing thousands of employees and multimillion-dollar systems. High salaries reflect the scale and complexity of these organizations. Many hold advanced degrees in healthcare administration or business. With healthcare being one of California’s largest industries, executives in this sector play pivotal roles in shaping patient care quality and organizational growth.

7. Physician (All Other)

General physicians diagnose, treat, and manage a wide range of illnesses. In California, they are highly paid due to the cost of living, patient volume, and healthcare demand. Physicians often work in private practices, hospitals, or medical groups. Their income varies by specialty and experience but consistently ranks among the highest. The role demands medical school, residency, and continuous certification, rewarding professionals who provide essential, broad-spectrum care across diverse patient populations statewide.

8. Obstetrician/Gynecologist (OB/GYN)

OB/GYNs specialize in women’s reproductive health, pregnancy, and childbirth. Their high salaries in California reflect both the medical responsibility and the patient demand across urban and suburban areas. The job requires years of medical training, residency, and specialization. OB/GYNs often divide their time between clinical appointments and hospital deliveries, working unpredictable hours. Their expertise ensures safe pregnancies and reproductive care, making them indispensable to the state’s healthcare landscape.

9. Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists administer anesthesia for surgeries and medical procedures, often working alongside anesthesiologists and surgeons. In California, CRNAs are among the highest-paid advanced practice nurses due to their critical role and specialized skills. They operate in hospitals, surgical centers, and military facilities. The job requires a master’s or doctoral degree in nursing and anesthesia certification. High salaries reflect both responsibility and the scarcity of qualified professionals in this demanding field.

10. Pediatrician

Pediatricians care for infants, children, and adolescents, ensuring healthy growth and development. In California, they earn high salaries due to the state’s population size and healthcare infrastructure. Their work involves diagnosing illnesses, administering vaccines, and counseling families on preventive health. Pediatricians require medical school and pediatric residency training. Many practice in private clinics, children’s hospitals, or large healthcare systems, balancing compassion with scientific expertise to provide lifelong wellness foundations.

11. Dentist

Dentists diagnose and treat oral health problems, performing procedures ranging from fillings to cosmetic enhancements. In California, where dental aesthetics and preventive care are valued, dentists command strong salaries. Many operate private practices in affluent communities, serving both routine and elective dental needs. Extensive education and licensing are required. High earnings reflect patient demand, especially for advanced procedures like implants, orthodontics, and veneers, which combine clinical precision with artistry.

12. Podiatrist

Podiatrists specialize in diagnosing and treating disorders of the foot, ankle, and lower leg. In California, they enjoy excellent earning potential due to a mix of sports medicine, orthopedics, and an active population. Their work includes surgeries, orthotic design, and diabetic foot care. The profession requires a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) degree and clinical residency. Strong demand in hospitals and private practice makes podiatry a lucrative and stable medical career path.

13. Pharmacist

Pharmacists dispense medications and advise on safe usage and potential interactions. In California, they earn high wages, especially in hospitals and clinical settings. The role demands a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree and state licensure. Pharmacists are key in ensuring patient safety and supporting physicians in treatment plans. With growing emphasis on healthcare accessibility, they often serve as frontline professionals, balancing medical precision with direct patient care.

14. Optometrist

Optometrists provide vision care, prescribing corrective lenses and diagnosing eye conditions. In California, strong income potential exists due to large patient bases and high demand for vision correction. They often run private practices or work in retail health chains. The job requires a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree and state licensing. Their expertise in early detection of eye diseases and vision disorders ensures long-term ocular health for patients statewide.

15. Physician Assistant (PA)

Physician Assistants provide medical care under physician supervision, performing exams, diagnosing illnesses, and prescribing treatments. In California, they enjoy high pay due to physician shortages and expanding healthcare networks. The role requires a master’s degree from an accredited PA program and national certification. PAs work across hospitals, clinics, and specialty practices, often enjoying strong job security and flexibility while delivering essential frontline healthcare services.

16. Nurse Practitioner (NP)

Nurse Practitioners are advanced practice registered nurses providing primary and specialized care. In California, where they now have expanded autonomy, NPs earn strong salaries and growing recognition. They diagnose, treat, and manage patient health independently in some cases. A master’s or doctoral nursing degree is required. With demand for affordable care rising, NPs fill vital gaps across communities, offering holistic, patient-centered healthcare solutions statewide.

17. Physical Therapist

Physical Therapists help patients recover mobility and manage pain after injuries or surgeries. California’s active lifestyle and aging population create constant demand for their services. PTs work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and private clinics. The job requires a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree and state licensing. Their personalized, movement-based treatments make them essential for patient recovery, earning them stable, high incomes across urban and suburban regions.

18. Veterinarian

Veterinarians diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases in animals, from pets to livestock. In California, their salaries are high due to the state’s large pet population and strong agricultural sector. They perform surgeries, administer vaccines, and provide health consultations. The role requires a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree and licensure. Many veterinarians run private clinics or specialize in equine, exotic, or emergency care, offering rewarding and financially strong careers.

19. Computer and Information Systems Manager

These professionals oversee IT operations and ensure technology supports business goals. In California’s tech-driven economy, they command top salaries, especially in Silicon Valley. Their duties include managing software teams, cybersecurity, and data infrastructure. Most hold degrees in computer science or IT management, plus leadership experience. With digital systems forming the backbone of nearly every enterprise, this role combines technical mastery with strategic planning and high responsibility.

20. Hardware Engineer

Hardware Engineers design and develop physical computer components like processors, circuit boards, and memory systems. In California, they are integral to the tech industry, especially in semiconductor and electronics firms. High pay reflects their technical expertise, precision, and impact on innovation. Most hold degrees in electrical or computer engineering. Their work drives advancements in everything from smartphones to AI systems, anchoring California’s global reputation for technological leadership.

The 100 Highest-Paying Jobs in California

No.	Job Title	Brief Description
1	Anesthesiologist	Administers anesthesia during surgeries; among the highest-paid professionals in California.
2	Surgeon (All Other)	Performs complex surgeries; high compensation reflects skill, risk, and training.
3	Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon	Conducts facial, mouth, and jaw surgeries; essential in trauma and reconstruction.
4	Orthodontist	Specializes in correcting dental misalignments; operates lucrative private practices.
5	Psychiatrist	Treats mental health conditions; strong demand across California’s healthcare systems.
6	Chief Executive (Hospital/Health System)	Oversees healthcare organizations; drives strategy and growth in multi-billion-dollar systems.
7	Physician (All Other)	Provides specialized medical care; high pay due to expertise and patient demand.
8	Obstetrician/Gynecologist	Specializes in women’s reproductive health and childbirth; vital, high-earning medical field.
9	Nurse Anesthetist	Administers anesthesia; high-paying nursing specialty requiring advanced certification.
10	Pediatrician	Provides healthcare to children; combines medical expertise with family care.
11	Dentist	Offers oral healthcare and cosmetic procedures; often operates profitable private clinics.
12	Podiatrist	Treats foot and ankle issues; high demand in sports and aging populations.
13	Pharmacist	Dispenses medications, counsels patients; essential in hospitals and retail pharmacies.
14	Optometrist	Provides eye care, vision correction, and detects ocular diseases.
15	Physician Assistant	Assists doctors in diagnosis and treatment; rising pay in surgical and specialty care.
16	Nurse Practitioner	Delivers advanced nursing care; autonomy drives high salaries in California.
17	Physical Therapist	Helps patients recover mobility; strong demand across hospitals and clinics.
18	Veterinarian	Cares for animals; high income in private and specialty practices.
19	Computer & Information Systems Manager	Leads IT operations; critical in Silicon Valley and tech enterprises.
20	Hardware Engineer	Designs computer components; well-paid due to California’s hardware innovation sector.
21	Software Developer	Builds software systems; core to California’s booming tech industry.
22	Data Scientist	Analyzes large datasets; key in AI, finance, and tech decision-making.
23	Information Security Analyst	Protects systems from cyber threats; crucial for corporate data safety.
24	Computer Network Architect	Designs data networks; vital for cloud and enterprise infrastructure.
25	Sales Engineer (Tech)	Bridges technology and sales; high commissions in enterprise software markets.
26	AI/Machine Learning Engineer	Develops intelligent systems; among California’s fastest-growing tech careers.
27	Cloud Architect	Designs cloud platforms; essential for scalable digital infrastructure.
28	DevOps Engineer	Manages system automation; key to efficient software deployment.
29	Petroleum Engineer	Designs extraction systems; lucrative in California’s energy sector.
30	Chemical Engineer	Develops chemical processes; vital for pharmaceuticals and manufacturing.
31	Aerospace Engineer	Designs aircraft and spacecraft; driven by defense and innovation sectors.
32	Electrical Engineer	Builds electrical systems; strong roles in renewable and electronics industries.
33	Computer Programmer (Senior/Lead)	Writes and tests software code; leads programming teams.
34	Natural Sciences Manager	Oversees research teams; directs scientific projects in biotech and environment.
35	Chief Executive Officer (CEO)	Leads corporations; compensation tied to company scale and success.
36	Chief Financial Officer (CFO)	Manages corporate finances; key to strategic growth and profitability.
37	Chief Operating Officer (COO)	Directs daily operations; high salaries in major firms.
38	Marketing Manager	Oversees marketing strategy; essential for brand growth and revenue.
39	Sales Manager	Leads sales teams; high bonuses for exceeding revenue goals.
40	Financial Manager	Oversees budgets, forecasting, and financial planning; critical leadership role.
41	Compensation & Benefits Manager	Designs pay structures; ensures competitive employee compensation packages.
42	Human Resources Manager	Manages staffing and compliance; high demand in large corporations.
43	Public Relations Manager	Handles public image; critical for entertainment and tech industries.
44	Actuary	Analyzes risk using mathematics; highly valued in insurance and finance.
45	Financial Analyst (Senior)	Evaluates investments; drives key business financial decisions.
46	Personal Financial Advisor	Manages client wealth; strong earnings through commissions and fees.
47	Management Analyst	Improves efficiency; advises organizations on strategic changes.
48	Investment Banker	Manages capital raising; high bonuses in California’s finance sector.
49	Private Equity Associate	Analyzes investments; supports mergers and acquisitions.
50	Venture Capital Associate	Funds startups; earns through investments and portfolio success.

No.	Job Title	Brief Description
51	Lawyer	Represents clients in legal matters; high earnings in corporate and entertainment law.
52	Law Firm Partner	Senior attorney with firm ownership; earns profit shares and bonuses.
53	General Counsel	Leads corporate legal affairs; key executive in large organizations.
54	Intellectual Property Attorney	Protects patents and trademarks; vital in California’s tech and film sectors.
55	Trial Lawyer	Litigates high-stakes cases; top earners in civil and criminal law.
56	Airline Pilot	Operates commercial aircraft; excellent pay and travel benefits.
57	Commercial Pilot	Flies charter or cargo planes; strong wages and flexibility.
58	Nuclear Power Reactor Operator	Manages nuclear plant systems; high responsibility and compensation.
59	Power Plant Operator	Controls energy generation; vital role with strong union wages.
60	Transportation Inspector	Ensures transportation safety compliance; critical for aviation and rail.
61	Construction Manager	Oversees building projects; high pay for large-scale developments.
62	Elevator Installer & Repairer	Installs and maintains elevators; unionized trade with strong salaries.
63	Radiation Therapist	Delivers radiation treatments; crucial in cancer care centers.
64	Dental Hygienist	Provides preventative dental care; steady income and job growth.
65	Electrical Power-Line Installer	Maintains electrical lines; high-risk, high-pay skilled trade.
66	Boilermaker	Builds and repairs boilers; demanding but well-paid industrial trade.
67	Structural Iron & Steel Worker	Constructs frameworks; essential in large building projects.
68	Petroleum Pump System Operator	Monitors oil systems; high wages in energy operations.
69	Real Estate Broker	Manages property transactions; strong income in luxury markets.
70	Commercial Diver	Performs underwater repairs and inspections; specialized and lucrative.
71	Architectural & Engineering Manager	Leads design projects; top pay in large-scale infrastructure.
72	Advertising & Promotions Manager	Oversees ad campaigns; drives brand awareness and revenue.
73	Training & Development Manager	Designs corporate training programs; improves workforce productivity.
74	Industrial Production Manager	Manages manufacturing operations; ensures efficiency and quality.
75	Purchasing Manager	Handles procurement; critical for controlling costs in large companies.
76	Farm Manager	Operates large farms; strong income in agribusiness and exports.
77	Storage & Distribution Manager	Oversees logistics and warehousing; vital for e-commerce and trade.
78	Funeral Home Manager	Manages funeral operations; steady earnings in essential services.
79	Postsecondary Education Administrator	Directs college departments; high salaries in major universities.
80	Judge	Presides over court cases; top compensation in government sector.
81	Magistrate	Handles legal proceedings; steady, respected judicial role.
82	Arbitrator	Resolves disputes outside court; high fees per case.
83	Mediator	Facilitates negotiations; strong pay in corporate and legal contexts.
84	Political Scientist	Researches government systems; high pay in think tanks and academia.
85	Economist	Analyzes markets; valued in finance, policy, and research.
86	Mathematician	Applies math models to solve complex problems; strong earnings in tech.
87	Statistician	Uses data analysis; essential in biotech and research firms.
88	Physicist	Studies matter and energy; strong research and defense sector roles.
89	Astronomer	Explores celestial phenomena; top salaries in research institutions.
90	Biochemist & Biophysicist	Conducts molecular research; high-paying biotech laboratory roles.
91	Geoscientist	Studies earth processes; strong income in energy and environmental sectors.
92	Environmental Scientist	Advises on sustainability; growing demand in California industries.
93	Psychologist (Clinical)	Treats mental health disorders; strong demand in private practice.
94	Sociologist	Researches human behavior; opportunities in policy and academia.
95	Urban & Regional Planner	Designs city layouts; vital in California’s rapid urban development.
96	Librarian (Specialized, Corporate)	Manages specialized collections; well-paid in corporate or legal settings.
97	Curator (Senior, Major Institutions)	Oversees museum collections; top salaries at major institutions.
98	Technical Writer	Creates manuals and documentation; well-compensated in biotech and tech.
99	Film & Video Editor	Edits media productions; high earnings in Hollywood and streaming.
100	Producer & Director	Oversees creative projects; earns top pay in film and entertainment.

Closing

The highest-paying jobs in California demonstrate the power of education, skill, and innovation in driving success. Whether in healthcare, technology, or business leadership, each role plays a vital part in supporting the state’s dynamic economy. These careers not only offer financial reward but also the opportunity to make a lasting impact on society — reflecting why California remains one of the most desirable destinations for top talent worldwide.