Food Scientists and Technologists Salary in California
Food Scientists and Technologists in California earn a median of $93,950 a year, +6% compared with the U.S. median.
Updated October 2026 · Data: BLS OEWS May 2025 · How we match careers
- Median pay
- $93,950
- vs. U.S. median
- +6% ($88,720)
- Rank among states
- 13 of 39
- Jobs in the state
- 2,210
Pay range in California
The lowest-paid 10% earn under $60,060; the top 10% earn over $140,810. Nationally the range is $52,920 to $145,280.
States ranked near California
Similar jobs in California
- Soil and Plant Scientists$91,930 median in California
- Microbiologists$108,530 median in California
- Validation Engineers$124,600 median in California (broader BLS group)
- Materials Scientists$177,030 median in California
- Materials Engineers$128,470 median in California
- Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers$210,280 median in California (broader BLS group)
Food Scientists and Technologists pay in California
How much do food scientists and technologists make in California?
The median is $93,950 a year. The lowest-paid 10% earn under $60,060 and the top 10% earn over $140,810. BLS OEWS May 2025.
Is California a good state for food scientists and technologists?
On pay alone it ranks 13 of 39 (+6% vs. the national median of $88,720). Living costs are not included.