How much does an Astronomer make in California?
An Astronomer working in California earns a median salary of $123,540 per year, or about $59.39 per hour. That is 4% below the national median of $128,820 for this occupation.
Within California, entry-level pay starts around $76,020 while the top 10% make $195,190 or more. The middle 50% of earners fall between $76,020 and $182,780 a year.
Astronomer salary range in California
| Pay level | Annual salary | Hourly rate | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10th percentile (entry level) | $76,020 | $36.55 | |
| 25th percentile (early career) | $76,020 | $36.55 | |
| 50th percentile (median) | $123,540 | $59.39 | |
| 75th percentile (experienced) | $182,780 | $87.88 | |
| 90th percentile (top earners) | $195,190 | $93.84 |
How California compares
California ranks 4th out of 5 states and territories for Astronomer pay. The top 5 best-paying states:
| Rank | State | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Maryland | $132,620 |
| 2 | Arizona | $129,020 |
| 3 | Virginia | $128,930 |
| 4 | California | $123,540 |
| 5 | Hawaii | $102,000 |
Astronomer salary in other states
Working as an Astronomer in California
Nationally, about 2,000 people work as Astronomers in the United States. A doctoral or professional degree (8 or more years of higher education) is required.
Considering a move? Compare California pay ($123,540) against the highest-paying state above, and weigh the difference against housing and everyday costs — a smaller paycheck in a cheaper state can stretch further.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an Astronomer make in California?
How does California pay compare to the national average?
Is California a good state for Astronomers?
What are the highest-paying jobs in California?
← See the national Astronomer salary report