Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors Salary in California
Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors in California earn a median of $64,890 a year, +31% compared with the U.S. median.
Updated October 2026 · Data: BLS OEWS May 2025 · How we match careers
- Median pay
- $64,890
- vs. U.S. median
- +31% ($49,690)
- Rank among states
- 4 of 51
- Jobs in the state
- 13,930
Pay range in California
The lowest-paid 10% earn under $45,970; the top 10% earn over $90,370. Nationally the range is $33,590 to $75,900.
States ranked near California
Similar jobs in California
- Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers$60,230 median in California
- Septic Tank Servicers and Sewer Pipe Cleaners$55,220 median in California
- Rail Yard Engineers, Dinkey Operators, and Hostlers$67,160 median in California
- Transportation Vehicle, Equipment and Systems Inspectors, Except Aviation$83,000 median in California (broader BLS group)
- Light Truck Drivers$46,790 median in California
- Helpers--Extraction Workers$51,720 median in California
Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors pay in California
How much do refuse and recyclable material collectors make in California?
The median is $64,890 a year. The lowest-paid 10% earn under $45,970 and the top 10% earn over $90,370. BLS OEWS May 2025.
Is California a good state for refuse and recyclable material collectors?
On pay alone it ranks 4 of 51 (+31% vs. the national median of $49,690). Living costs are not included.