How much does a Motion Picture Projectionist make in California?
Motion Picture Projectionists in California take home a median of $74,840 annually — roughly $35.98 an hour — which runs 96% above the national median of $38,270.
Within California, entry-level pay starts around $34,470 while the top 10% make $134,010 or more. The middle 50% of earners fall between $36,350 and $117,940 a year.
Motion Picture Projectionist salary range in California
| Pay level | Annual salary | Hourly rate | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10th percentile (entry level) | $34,470 | $16.57 | |
| 25th percentile (early career) | $36,350 | $17.48 | |
| 50th percentile (median) | $74,840 | $35.98 | |
| 75th percentile (experienced) | $117,940 | $56.70 | |
| 90th percentile (top earners) | $134,010 | $64.43 |
How California compares
California ranks 3rd out of 12 states and territories for Motion Picture Projectionist pay. The top 5 best-paying states:
| Rank | State | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | New York | $82,260 |
| 2 | Illinois | $78,990 |
| 3 | California | $74,840 |
| 4 | Washington | $39,070 |
| 5 | Michigan | $37,590 |
Motion Picture Projectionist salary in other states
Working as a Motion Picture Projectionist in California
Nationally, about 1,000 people work as Motion Picture Projectionists in the United States. A high school diploma is typically enough, with most skills learned on the job.
Considering a move? Compare California pay ($74,840) 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
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← See the national Motion Picture Projectionist salary report