How Physician Assistant (PA)s 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) | $140,400 | $106,700 | $182,600 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $174,600 | $132,600 | $226,900 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $200,700 | $152,500 | $260,900 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $240,800 | $183,000 | $313,000 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $272,900 | $207,400 | $354,800 |
Pay varies sharply within California. Major metros usually outpay state-wide averages.
| Metro | Median | 25th % | 75th % | vs California |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose | $232,800 | $176,900 | $302,600 | +16% |
| San Francisco | $225,900 | $171,700 | $293,600 | +13% |
| Los Angeles | $191,500 | $145,500 | $248,900 | -5% |
| San Diego | $189,200 | $143,800 | $245,900 | -6% |
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 Physician Assistant (PA) salary in California is $200,700 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $152,500 and the 75th at $260,900.
Pay-wise, California sits +40% above the national Physician Assistant (PA) median ($143,300). That makes it one of the stronger markets — though cost of living should always be factored in alongside raw salary.
Senior Physician Assistant (PA)s (10–14 years of experience) in California earn around $240,800 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $272,900 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), California ranks 1st for Physician Assistant (PA) pay. The highest-paying state pays around $200,700 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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