HowLong&HowMuch
Beauty & personal care · California

Esthetician salary in California

A esthetician in California earns an estimated $49,000 a year (about $23.56/hour) — roughly 17% above the US median. Here's how it breaks down, and how long it takes to get there.

Estimated California median$49,000
Entry level$34,000
Experienced$79,500+
US median (for comparison)$42,000

Estimate: national median adjusted for California's wage level (+17%). Not a survey figure for California specifically — see official state BLS OEWS data or local listings for exact pay.

How long to become one
about 1 year
State-licensed program (~600 hrs)
See the full path →
Hourly in California
$23.56/hr
estimated median wage

Esthetician pay in California — FAQ

How much does a esthetician make in California?

A esthetician in California earns an estimated $49,000 a year (about $23.56/hour), roughly 17% above the US median. Most fall between roughly $34,000 and $79,500 depending on experience, employer and city. This is an estimate adjusted from the national median — check local listings for exact pay.

How long does it take to become a esthetician in California?

About the same as anywhere in the US — about 1 year (State-licensed program (~600 hrs)). Licensing details can vary by state, so confirm California's specific requirements with its licensing board.

Esthetician salary in other states

General information only — not career, legal or financial advice. State salary figures are estimates adjusted from national medians and will differ from exact local survey data.