How much does a Sociologist make in California?
Sociologists in California take home a median of $125,770 annually — roughly $60.47 an hour — which runs 19% above the national median of $106,030.
Within California, entry-level pay starts around $85,030 while the top 10% make $161,710 or more. The middle 50% of earners fall between $98,770 and $138,710 a year.
Sociologist salary range in California
| Pay level | Annual salary | Hourly rate | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10th percentile (entry level) | $85,030 | $40.88 | |
| 25th percentile (early career) | $98,770 | $47.49 | |
| 50th percentile (median) | $125,770 | $60.47 | |
| 75th percentile (experienced) | $138,710 | $66.69 | |
| 90th percentile (top earners) | $161,710 | $77.75 |
How California compares
California ranks 4th out of 11 states and territories for Sociologist pay. The top 5 best-paying states:
| Rank | State | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Illinois | $140,770 |
| 2 | Kentucky | $136,870 |
| 3 | North Carolina | $126,760 |
| 4 | California | $125,770 |
| 5 | Alaska | $108,170 |
Sociologist salary in other states
Working as a Sociologist in California
Nationally, about 2,000 people work as Sociologists in the United States. A doctoral or professional degree (8 or more years of higher education) is required.
Considering a move? Compare California pay ($125,770) 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 Sociologist salary report