It’s easy to see why you’d want to live in the Golden State. Its warm weather, white sand beaches, delicious food, and friendly people make it one of the best places to call home. But living in California can be a big drain on your bank account. The state has the third highest cost of living in the country, behind only New York and Hawaii.
California’s high housing prices and gas taxes make it one of the most expensive states to settle down in. To be financially comfortable there, it’s estimated that you need a household income of at least $99,971. But luckily California has a strong job market and lots of great job opportunities if you know where to look.
To help you in your job search, here’s a list of the best paying jobs in California.
Best Paying Jobs in California
IT Manager
Many tech companies are based in California, so you’ll have lots of job opportunities as an IT manager. To land this role, you’ll usually need a degree in information technology, computer science, or a related field. IT managers can earn $185,000 per year, which is more than enough to live comfortably in California.
Doctor
It takes 10 to 14 years to become a doctor, but the payoff is worth it. Physicians are some of the best paid professionals in the state and can earn as much as $212,000.
Lawyer
Love Law and Order? A career as a lawyer may be right for you. You’ll need to spend four years at college and another three at law school, but a great average salary of $173,000 awaits you when you’re done.
Marketing Manager
If you’re a creative person, you may enjoy working in marketing. You’ll get to work on interesting ad campaigns all day and can earn up to $170,000 if you climb the ranks and become a manager.
Financial Manager
If you love tinkering with your budget spreadsheets, consider a career as a financial manager. They earn an average of $156,000 and only need a bachelor’s degree.
Best Paying Jobs in California Without a Degree
Most of the best paying jobs in California require at least a college degree. However, if you don’t have the time or money to go back to school, here are some good paying jobs you can land without a diploma.
Firefighter
Firefighting is a lucrative and fulfilling career path. You’ll not only get to help people everyday, but also earn a good salary of $100,000 to $125,000.
Building Inspector
If you have a passion for construction, look into becoming a building inspector. They only need a high school degree and earn an average of $100,000 per year.
Makeup Artist
Makeup artists who work on TV shows and plays can earn as much as $115,000 per year.
Elevator and Escalator Repairer
If you’re good at fixing things, you could become an elevator repairer and earn up to $100,000 per year.
Police Officer
Police officers in big cities like Los Angeles can earn salaries as high as $135,000.
Pilot
Airline pilots in California can make up to $208,000. Although you won’t need a college degree to become a pilot, you will need to earn a commercial pilot certificate and pass a thorough medical examination.
Living in California can get expensive. But luckily there are lots of job opportunities throughout the state that pay a good salary and will enable you to live comfortably.
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