Respiratory Therapist Salary in California (2026)
California · 42.0% above national average · High Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | $160,850 | +55.0% | High |
| San Diego | $153,586 | +48.0% | High |
| San Jose | $178,491 | +72.0% | High |
| San Francisco | $191,982 | +85.0% | High |
| Fresno | $112,076 | +8.0% | High |
| Sacramento | $126,604 | +22.0% | High |
| Long Beach | $150,472 | +45.0% | High |
| Bakersfield | $112,076 | +8.0% | High |
| Anaheim | $147,359 | +42.0% | High |
| Santa Ana | $145,284 | +40.0% | High |
| Riverside | $132,831 | +28.0% | High |
| Stockton | $122,453 | +18.0% | High |
| Irvine | $160,850 | +55.0% | High |
| San Bernardino | $122,453 | +18.0% | High |
| Modesto | $116,227 | +12.0% | High |
| Fontana | $126,604 | +22.0% | High |
| Moreno Valley | $119,340 | +15.0% | High |
| Glendale | $153,586 | +48.0% | High |
| Fremont | $166,038 | +60.0% | High |
California is home to a very strong job market for Respiratory Therapists. The state's key industries — Technology, Entertainment, Agriculture — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $103,774 per year, California's Respiratory Therapist 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 $75,074–$88,871, while experienced Respiratory Therapists can command $119,913–$129,359.
Looking ahead, the Respiratory Therapist profession in California is projected to grow at 4.0% 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 Respiratory Therapist salary in California?The average Respiratory Therapist salary in California is $103,774 per year in 2026, which is 42.0% above the national average of $73,080.
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What city in California pays Respiratory Therapists the most?San Francisco and San Jose typically pay Respiratory Therapists 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 Respiratory Therapists?California has a very strong job market with major industries in Technology, Entertainment, Agriculture. This makes it one of the better states for Respiratory Therapist employment.
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How does California Respiratory Therapist salary compare to the US average?At $103,774/year, California Respiratory Therapist salaries are 42.0% higher than the national average of $73,080/year.