Sociologist Salary in California (2026)
California · 42.0% above national average · Medium Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | $204,495 | +55.0% | Medium |
| San Diego | $195,259 | +48.0% | Medium |
| San Jose | $226,923 | +72.0% | Medium |
| San Francisco | $244,074 | +85.0% | Medium |
| Fresno | $142,487 | +8.0% | Medium |
| Sacramento | $160,957 | +22.0% | Medium |
| Long Beach | $191,301 | +45.0% | Medium |
| Bakersfield | $142,487 | +8.0% | Medium |
| Anaheim | $187,343 | +42.0% | Medium |
| Santa Ana | $184,705 | +40.0% | Medium |
| Riverside | $168,873 | +28.0% | Medium |
| Stockton | $155,680 | +18.0% | Medium |
| Irvine | $204,495 | +55.0% | Medium |
| San Bernardino | $155,680 | +18.0% | Medium |
| Modesto | $147,764 | +12.0% | Medium |
| Fontana | $160,957 | +22.0% | Medium |
| Moreno Valley | $151,722 | +15.0% | Medium |
| Glendale | $195,259 | +48.0% | Medium |
| Fremont | $211,091 | +60.0% | Medium |
California is home to a very strong job market for Sociologists. The state's key industries — Technology, Entertainment, Agriculture — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $131,932 per year, California's Sociologist 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 $83,489–$112,486, while experienced Sociologists can command $177,727–$203,524.
Looking ahead, the Sociologist profession in California is projected to grow at 3.2% 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 Sociologist salary in California?The average Sociologist salary in California is $131,932 per year in 2026, which is 42.0% above the national average of $92,910.
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What city in California pays Sociologists the most?San Francisco and San Jose typically pay Sociologists 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 Sociologists?California has a very strong job market with major industries in Technology, Entertainment, Agriculture. This makes it one of the better states for Sociologist employment.
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How does California Sociologist salary compare to the US average?At $131,932/year, California Sociologist salaries are 42.0% higher than the national average of $92,910/year.