Locomotive Engineers Salary in California
Locomotive Engineers in California earn a median of $77,070 a year, −5% compared with the U.S. median.
Updated October 2026 · Data: BLS OEWS May 2025 · How we match careers
- Median pay
- $77,070
- vs. U.S. median
- −5% ($81,410)
- Rank among states
- 27 of 35
- Jobs in the state
- 1,570
Pay range in California
The lowest-paid 10% earn under $52,260; the top 10% earn over $79,940. Nationally the range is $60,680 to $109,220.
States ranked near California
Similar jobs in California
- Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firers$58,770 median in California
- Tank Car, Truck, and Ship Loaders$68,600 median in California
- Rail Yard Engineers, Dinkey Operators, and Hostlers$67,160 median in California
- Aircraft Service Attendants$46,800 median in California
- Explosives Workers, Ordnance Handling Experts, and Blasters$80,370 median in California
- Septic Tank Servicers and Sewer Pipe Cleaners$55,220 median in California
Locomotive Engineers pay in California
How much do locomotive engineers make in California?
The median is $77,070 a year. The lowest-paid 10% earn under $52,260 and the top 10% earn over $79,940. BLS OEWS May 2025.
Is California a good state for locomotive engineers?
On pay alone it ranks 27 of 35 (−5% vs. the national median of $81,410). Living costs are not included.