Salaries in Berkeley, CA
What is the average salary in Berkeley, CA?
Berkeley, CA, offers a range of salary opportunities across various industries. The average salary for a job seeker in Berkeley is around $80,492. This figure varies based on the job sector and experience level. For instance, those with less than a year of experience can expect to earn around $36,450. As experience grows, so do the salary prospects, with those having over 10 years earning up to $225,000.
The top-paying sectors in Berkeley include technology, healthcare, and finance. In tech, salaries can start at $53,591 and reach up to $225,000. Healthcare professionals see a range from $70,732 to $207,859. The finance sector offers salaries from $87,873 to $190,718. These figures highlight the potential for growth and high earnings in Berkeley, making it an attractive place for job seekers.
What are the best paying jobs in Berkeley, CA?

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Pharmacist
Average Salary: $173,337
Pharmacists work in local pharmacies, hospitals, and research facilities. They ensure medications are safe and effective. They advise patients on drug use and side effects.
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Staff Nurse
Average Salary: $171,953
Staff nurses provide care in hospitals, clinics, and schools. They monitor patients and administer treatments. They work closely with doctors and other healthcare professionals.
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Dental Hygienist
Average Salary: $137,108
Dental hygienists clean teeth and educate patients on oral care. They work in dental offices and clinics. They use special tools to remove plaque and tartar.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $133,060
Registered nurses provide patient care in hospitals and clinics. They monitor vital signs and administer treatments. They work with doctors and other healthcare staff.
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Laboratory Technologist
Average Salary: $124,921
Laboratory technologists analyze samples in medical labs. They use microscopes and other equipment. They help doctors diagnose and treat illnesses.
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Occupational Therapist
Average Salary: $113,744
Occupational therapists help patients recover from injuries. They design treatment plans and exercises. They work in hospitals, schools, and clinics.
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Speech Language Pathologist
Average Salary: $109,649
Speech language pathologists treat speech and language disorders. They work with patients of all ages. They use various techniques to improve communication skills.
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Technical Project Lead
Average Salary: $96,863
Technical project leads manage tech projects in tech companies. They coordinate teams and ensure projects are on time. They work with developers, designers, and other tech professionals.
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Program Director
Average Salary: $96,861
Program directors oversee programs in non-profits, schools, and government agencies. They manage budgets and staff. They ensure programs meet goals and objectives.
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Clinician
Average Salary: $93,148
Clinicians provide medical care in clinics and hospitals. They diagnose and treat patients. They work with other healthcare professionals to ensure quality care.
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What are the best paying jobs in Berkeley, CA without a degree?

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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $65,740
Manage daily operations of a restaurant. Oversee staff, handle customer service, and ensure smooth service. Work in a dynamic environment with companies like Bouchon and The Plant Café.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $45,127
Clean and maintain rooms and common areas. Ensure a safe and comfortable environment. Opportunities exist with hotels such as The Claremont Club & Spa and Berkeley City Club.
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Canvasser
Average Salary: $43,607
Promote products or services by visiting homes and businesses. Engage with the community and gather feedback. Work with local businesses and organizations to spread awareness.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $41,777
Prepare ingredients and cook food in a fast-paced kitchen. Follow recipes and maintain food quality. Experience is valuable in restaurants like The Fat Lady and Cha Cha Cha.
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Server Assistant
Average Salary: $41,415
Support servers by setting up tables and clearing dishes. Ensure a pleasant dining experience. Work in popular spots like The Old Anchor Pub and Café Gratitude.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $41,142
Clean dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment. Maintain a clean and organized kitchen area. Opportunities are available in restaurants like The Plant Café and Cha Cha Cha.
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Kitchen Team Member
Average Salary: $39,841
Assist in various kitchen tasks. Support chefs and cooks in preparing meals. Work in a busy environment with restaurants like The Plant Café and Cha Cha Cha.
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Server
Average Salary: $39,667
Take orders and serve food and drinks to customers. Ensure a positive dining experience. Opportunities exist with popular restaurants like The Fat Lady and The Old Anchor Pub.
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Barista
Average Salary: $37,518
Prepare and serve coffee and other beverages. Engage with customers and provide a welcoming atmosphere. Work in coffee shops like Peet’s Coffee and The Plant Café.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Berkeley, CA?

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PETS Referral Center
Average Salary: $177,510
PETS Referral Center offers specialized veterinary services. They focus on providing high-quality care for pets.
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Sutter Health
Average Salary: $128,390
Sutter Health is a well-known healthcare provider. They offer a range of medical services, from primary care to specialized treatments.
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Kaiser Permanente
Average Salary: $120,598
Kaiser Permanente is a large healthcare organization. They provide comprehensive medical services to their members.
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Bayer
Average Salary: $105,665
Bayer is a global pharmaceutical and life sciences company. They focus on health and nutrition.
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ProCare Therapy
Average Salary: $97,101
ProCare Therapy offers rehabilitation services. They help patients recover from injuries and illnesses.
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Prime Roots
Average Salary: $95,457
Prime Roots is a company that provides educational and career services. They help individuals find the right path for their future.
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University of California Berkeley
Average Salary: $91,420
UC Berkeley is a top university. They offer a wide range of academic programs and research opportunities.
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Sun Light & Power
Average Salary: $82,556
Sun Light & Power specializes in solar energy solutions. They provide products and services to harness solar power.
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Backroads
Average Salary: $80,776
Backroads offers guided tours and travel experiences. They focus on adventure and exploration.
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LifeLong Medical Care
Average Salary: $75,278
LifeLong Medical Care provides healthcare services. They focus on providing accessible and quality care to the community.
How does the cost of living in Berkeley, CA compare to the national average?

The cost of living in Berkeley, California, significantly exceeds the nationwide average, making it a more expensive place to live. Housing costs in Berkeley are notably higher, with an index of 200 compared to the national average of 100. This means housing costs in Berkeley are twice as high as the average cost across the country. Additionally, groceries in Berkeley cost 25% more than the national average, with an index of 125. This increase can impact monthly budgets for families and individuals alike.
Utilities, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous expenses also show higher costs in Berkeley. Utilities have an index of 120, which is 20% above the national average. Transportation costs are 15% higher, with an index of 115. Healthcare expenses, while still relatively close to the national average, are 5% higher at 105. Miscellaneous costs, which include items like clothing and entertainment, are 30% higher, with an index of 130. These factors combined make Berkeley a place where living expenses are substantially greater than the national average.