Project Manager Salary in California (2026)

Based on the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS data — updated August 12, 2026.

Median Annual Salary$120,910
Median Hourly Wage$58.13
National Median$104,968
Jobs in California114,380

Project Manager Salary in California vs. National Average

CaliforniaNationalDifference
Median annual salary$120,910$104,968+15%
Median hourly wage$58.13$50.47+15%

Adjusted for local price levels (100 = national average), the cost-adjusted median is $109,223.

Project Manager Salary in Top California Cities

CityMedianEntry LevelExperiencedCost of Living
San Francisco$148,800 $100,750$224,750 244
Oakland$134,400 $91,000$203,000 196
Los Angeles$122,880 $83,200$185,600 173
Long Beach$115,200 $78,000$174,000 153
San Diego$113,280 $76,700$171,100 161
Sacramento$103,680 $70,200$156,600 130
Fresno$91,200 $61,750$137,750 105

FAQ

How much does a Project Manager make in California?

The median annual salary for a Project Manager in California is $120,910, or about $58.13 per hour, according to BLS OEWS data.

How does this compare to the national average?

The national median for Project Managers is $104,968. California is +15% above the national median.

What is the entry-level salary for a Project Manager in California?

Entry-level project managers in California typically earn from $100,750 depending on the city and employer.

Is California a good state for project managers?

With 114,380 project manager jobs on record and a median salary of $120,910, California offers above-average pay compared to the rest of the country.