Introduction
California is home to some of the best jobs in the United States. Whether you’re a talented computer programmer, have an interest in medicine or are simply looking for a new career path, there’s a job out there for everyone. Keep reading for our list of the 10 highest paying jobs in California:
1. Actuaries
Actuaries are the people who determine how much insurance companies should pay in case of an accident or illness. They also help to make sure that people get paid back what they’re owed when something bad happens.
The average actuarial salary is around $117,000 per year, so if you want to make this kind of money but don’t have a bachelor’s degree in mathematics or statistics (or even some other math-related field), then becoming an actuary might be right up your alley!
In fact, there are only about 1 million people in the United States who have earned their professional designation as an actuary—so getting hired won’t be easy!
2. Anesthesiologists
Anesthesiologists are doctors who administer anesthesia to patients. They also monitor the health of patients during and after surgery, which can be a stressful job. Anesthesiologists work in hospitals, ambulatory surgical centers, and private offices across the United States.
Anesthesiologists make around $280,000 per year on average—but they can earn up to $300k+.
3. Surgeons
Surgery is one of the highest-paying jobs in California, with an average salary of $350,000 per year. Surgeons are highly trained professionals who perform surgery on patients. They can specialize in different areas such as plastic surgery or orthopedic surgery but they all have to undergo years of training before being able to perform their duties as surgeons.
4. Obstetricians/Gynecologists
Obstetricians/Gynecologists are medical doctors who specialize in obstetrics and gynecology. They provide care for pregnant women before, during, and after childbirth. They also provide care for women with reproductive problems such as ovarian cancer or endometriosis.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the job outlook for OB/GYNs is good through 2024—that’s 17 years! That means there will be plenty of jobs available during your career if you choose to pursue one in California.
5. Internists, General
Internists are doctors who focus on the diagnosis and treatment of conditions that affect the adult population. They’re also known as general physicians, as they can treat a wide range of diseases including diabetes, heart disease, asthma and cancer.
Internists can prescribe medications for their patients or refer them to specialists if needed. They may also do some minor surgeries depending on what kind of training they’ve received from medical school; however most internists don’t perform surgery.
6. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are the most highly compensated in the state with a median salary of $359,000. They work with patients who need surgery on the mouth or jaw and are able to perform reconstructive or cosmetic procedures. Some examples include:
- Removing impacted teeth (tooth root canal)
- Repairing a cleft lip or palate (reconstructive surgery)
7. Orthodontists
Orthodontists are dentists who specialize in fixing crooked teeth. The average orthodontist salary is $200,000 a year, but you can expect to make more if you’re an experienced practitioner or work with multiple patients.
Here’s how to become one:
- Go to dental school – This is typically four years of education and training, after which you’ll be ready to apply for licensure and start practicing medicine.
- Gain experience as an assistant or associate dentist – If it’s too challenging for your schedule or finances right now, consider taking on some part-time jobs while applying yourself toward getting into the field of orthodontics later on down the line (such as working at a local clinic). You can also try volunteering at schools so that they see what type of person they’re hiring!
8. Physicians and Surgeons, All Other; and Ophthalmologists, Except Pediatric
Jobs in this category are typically held by physicians, surgeons and other health care providers who work in a variety of settings. The median annual wage for Physicians and Surgeons, All Other; and Ophthalmologists, Except Pediatric is $235,800.
9. Psychiatrists
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders. They are trained to diagnose and treat mental illnesses, including depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders and substance abuse.
As a psychiatrist you’ll be able to help people with their problems by providing them with accurate information about what’s causing their symptoms so they can make informed decisions about treatment options that will suit them best.
10. Dentists
Dentists are the highest paid professionals in California and earn a median annual salary of $194,130. The average dentist salary in California is $193,760. Dentists are also one of the most sought after careers by prospective job seekers who want to work in a field that pays well and offers good benefits like health insurance coverage, retirement savings plans and paid time off for vacations or sick days.
Conclusion
Our list of the top paying jobs in California is not all-encompassing, but it does give you a good idea of what kind of jobs there are out there in California. We hope that you found this article helpful and informative!
