Writers and Authors Salary in California
Writers and Authors in California earn a median of $86,480 a year, +12% compared with the U.S. median.
Updated October 2026 · Data: BLS OEWS May 2025 · How we match careers
- Median pay
- $86,480
- vs. U.S. median
- +12% ($76,910)
- Rank among states
- 6 of 43
- Jobs in the state
- 8,390
Pay range in California
The lowest-paid 10% earn under $56,730; the top 10% earn over $193,080. Nationally the range is $44,310 to $139,870.
States ranked near California
Similar jobs in California
- Poets, Lyricists and Creative Writers$86,480 median in California (broader BLS group)
- Public Relations Specialists$85,030 median in California
- Editors$98,030 median in California
- Talent Directors$129,790 median in California (broader BLS group)
- Producers and Directors$129,790 median in California
- Art Directors$137,780 median in California
Writers and Authors pay in California
How much do writers and authors make in California?
The median is $86,480 a year. The lowest-paid 10% earn under $56,730 and the top 10% earn over $193,080. BLS OEWS May 2025.
Is California a good state for writers and authors?
On pay alone it ranks 6 of 43 (+12% vs. the national median of $76,910). Living costs are not included.