May 2025 BLS data
Surgical Technologist salary in California
The median surgical technologist in California earns $81,310/year ($39.09/hr) — 26% above the national median.
Median pay
$81,310/yr
Hourly median
$39.09/hr
State rank
#3 of 51
Employed
11,920
Surgical Technologist pay percentiles in California
| Percentile | Hourly | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $23.63 | $49,140 |
| 25th percentile | $30.95 | $64,380 |
| Median (50th) | $39.09 | $81,310 |
| 75th percentile | $47.72 | $99,260 |
| 90th percentile | $55.64 | $115,740 |
The spread is large: top-decile surgical technologists in California out-earn the bottom decile by $32.01/hour — experience, certifications, and setting drive most of that gap.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025.
Where do you fall on this curve?
Enter your pay to see your exact percentile among California surgical technologists — free, and your salary never leaves your browser.
Free salary check
What do people in your role actually earn?
Surgical Technologists in California earn
$23.63–$55.64 /hour
Median $81,310/year · 11,920 employed
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS May 2025
Nearby states compared
Top-paying states for surgical technologists
- 1. Hawaii$82,640/yr
- 2. Oregon$81,390/yr
- 3. California$81,310/yr
- 4. Massachusetts$80,870/yr
- 5. Alaska$80,380/yr
Want to move up this curve?
Use the checker above to unlock a raise plan for your experience level — or explore courses that raise earning power and the free workplace fit quiz.
Surgical Technologist salaries in every stateFrequently asked questions
How much does a surgical technologist make in California?
The median surgical technologist in California earns $81,310 per year, or $39.09 per hour, according to May 2025 BLS data. Most earn between $49,140 (10th percentile) and $115,740 (90th percentile).
What is a good surgical technologist salary in California?
Top-quartile surgical technologists in California earn $99,260 or more per year ($47.72/hr). Reaching that range typically comes from experience, certifications, and higher-paying settings.
How does California compare to other states for surgical technologists?
California ranks #3 of 51 states, with a median 26% above the national median of $64,650.
What do entry-level surgical technologists earn in California?
Entry-level pay typically falls near the 10th–25th percentile: $49,140–$64,380 per year ($23.63–$30.95/hr) in California.