Entertainment, tech, aerospace — sprawling and high-paying. Here's how Petroleum Engineers in Los Angeles get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Los Angeles metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $146,800 | $111,500 | $190,800 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $182,500 | $138,600 | $237,200 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $209,800 | $159,400 | $272,700 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $251,700 | $191,200 | $327,200 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $285,300 | $216,700 | $370,800 |
Highest-paying metros for Petroleum Engineers — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Los Angeles metro economy.
The average Petroleum Engineer salary in the Los Angeles metro is $209,800 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $159,400 to $272,700 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $346,100 or more.
Yes — Los Angeles pays -5% relative to the California state median for Petroleum Engineers. Major metros typically concentrate higher-paying employers and command a wage premium over rural and small-city areas in the same state.
Los Angeles vs. national: +34%. That puts Los Angeles among the stronger US markets for Petroleum Engineers — though cost of living in Los Angeles is also typically elevated.
In Los Angeles, the median Petroleum Engineer salary of $209,800 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Petroleum Engineers in Los Angeles start around $146,800, while seniors (10+ years) reach $251,700 or more.
Metro medians are useful benchmarks — but your exact number depends on your experience, education, and the specific employer. Run the free calculator for a personalized read.
Get my personal salary report →