Medical Scientist Salary in California (2026)
California · 42.0% above national average · High Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | $219,947 | +55.0% | High |
| San Diego | $210,013 | +48.0% | High |
| San Jose | $244,070 | +72.0% | High |
| San Francisco | $262,517 | +85.0% | High |
| Fresno | $153,253 | +8.0% | High |
| Sacramento | $173,119 | +22.0% | High |
| Long Beach | $205,756 | +45.0% | High |
| Bakersfield | $153,253 | +8.0% | High |
| Anaheim | $201,499 | +42.0% | High |
| Santa Ana | $198,661 | +40.0% | High |
| Riverside | $181,633 | +28.0% | High |
| Stockton | $167,443 | +18.0% | High |
| Irvine | $219,947 | +55.0% | High |
| San Bernardino | $167,443 | +18.0% | High |
| Modesto | $158,929 | +12.0% | High |
| Fontana | $173,119 | +22.0% | High |
| Moreno Valley | $163,186 | +15.0% | High |
| Glendale | $210,013 | +48.0% | High |
| Fremont | $227,042 | +60.0% | High |
California is home to a very strong job market for Medical Scientists. The state's key industries — Technology, Entertainment, Agriculture — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $141,901 per year, California's Medical Scientist salaries are 42.0% higher than the national average.
The cost of living in California (index: 1.42) justifies the higher pay scale. Entry-level professionals in California can expect to earn $83,236–$116,046, while experienced Medical Scientists can command $189,869–$219,958.
Looking ahead, the Medical Scientist profession in California is projected to grow at 4.8% annually. Major employers are actively hiring, and the state's investment in Technology continues to drive new opportunities for qualified candidates.
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What is the average Medical Scientist salary in California?The average Medical Scientist salary in California is $141,901 per year in 2026, which is 42.0% above the national average of $99,930.
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What city in California pays Medical Scientists the most?San Francisco and San Jose typically pay Medical Scientists the highest wages in California due to higher costs of living and competitive job markets.
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Is California a good state for Medical Scientists?California has a very strong job market with major industries in Technology, Entertainment, Agriculture. This makes it one of the better states for Medical Scientist employment.
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How does California Medical Scientist salary compare to the US average?At $141,901/year, California Medical Scientist salaries are 42.0% higher than the national average of $99,930/year.