How Actuarys in California get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical California compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $119,900 | $91,200 | $155,900 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $149,100 | $113,300 | $193,800 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $171,400 | $130,300 | $222,800 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $205,600 | $156,300 | $267,300 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $233,100 | $177,200 | $303,000 |
Pay varies sharply within California. Major metros usually outpay state-wide averages.
| Metro | Median | 25th % | 75th % | vs California |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose | $218,600 | $166,100 | $284,100 | +28% |
| San Francisco | $212,000 | $161,100 | $275,600 | +24% |
| Los Angeles | $179,100 | $136,100 | $232,800 | +4% |
| San Diego | $176,900 | $134,400 | $229,900 | +3% |
Top occupations by median pay in California — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
→ See full ranking of top 25 highest-paying jobs in California
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average Actuary salary in California is $171,400 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $130,300 and the 75th at $222,800.
Pay-wise, California sits +25% above the national Actuary median ($137,100). That makes it one of the stronger markets — though cost of living should always be factored in alongside raw salary.
Senior Actuarys (10–14 years of experience) in California earn around $205,600 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $233,100 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), California ranks 7th for Actuary pay. The highest-paying state pays around $192,000 on average.
The median is a benchmark, not a verdict. Your exact market value depends on your experience and education — plus your specific employer's pay band. Run the free calculator for a personalized number.
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