Microbiologists Salary in California
Microbiologists in California earn a median of $108,530 a year, +23% compared with the U.S. median.
Updated October 2026 · Data: BLS OEWS May 2025 · How we match careers
- Median pay
- $108,530
- vs. U.S. median
- +23% ($87,990)
- Rank among states
- 2 of 42
- Jobs in the state
- 2,600
Pay range in California
The lowest-paid 10% earn under $62,440; the top 10% earn over $183,420. Nationally the range is $54,670 to $150,000.
States ranked near California
Similar jobs in California
- Molecular and Cellular Biologists$113,530 median in California (broader BLS group)
- Soil and Plant Scientists$91,930 median in California
- Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists$136,990 median in California
- Geneticists$113,530 median in California (broader BLS group)
- Food Scientists and Technologists$93,950 median in California
- Biologists$113,530 median in California (broader BLS group)
Microbiologists pay in California
How much do microbiologists make in California?
The median is $108,530 a year. The lowest-paid 10% earn under $62,440 and the top 10% earn over $183,420. BLS OEWS May 2025.
Is California a good state for microbiologists?
On pay alone it ranks 2 of 42 (+23% vs. the national median of $87,990). Living costs are not included.