Mechanical Drafters Salary in California
Mechanical Drafters in California earn a median of $82,510 a year, +15% compared with the U.S. median.
Updated October 2026 · Data: BLS OEWS May 2025 · How we match careers
- Median pay
- $82,510
- vs. U.S. median
- +15% ($71,550)
- Rank among states
- 4 of 47
- Jobs in the state
- 3,640
Pay range in California
The lowest-paid 10% earn under $50,200; the top 10% earn over $128,160. Nationally the range is $48,360 to $106,580.
States ranked near California
Similar jobs in California
- Aerospace Engineers$157,620 median in California
- Electrical and Electronics Drafters$78,310 median in California
- Mechanical Engineers$130,900 median in California
- Automotive Engineers$130,900 median in California (broader BLS group)
- Mechatronics Engineers$130,850 median in California (broader BLS group)
- Materials Engineers$128,470 median in California
Mechanical Drafters pay in California
How much do mechanical drafters make in California?
The median is $82,510 a year. The lowest-paid 10% earn under $50,200 and the top 10% earn over $128,160. BLS OEWS May 2025.
Is California a good state for mechanical drafters?
On pay alone it ranks 4 of 47 (+15% vs. the national median of $71,550). Living costs are not included.