California ranks 3rd of 51 states and D.C. for animal caretakers pay, trailing top-paying Washington ($38,400) by $1,200 — a 3% gap.
The 10th-to-90th percentile range runs from $34,420 to $48,150 — a $13,730 spread, 38% tighter than the national $21,980 range.
California employs roughly 9.4% of all animal caretakers in the country (26,200 workers).
Salary Range: 10th to 90th Percentile
Full Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| 10th percentile (entry-level) | $34,420 | $16.55 |
| 25th percentile | $35,700 | $17.16 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $37,200 | $17.88 |
| 75th percentile | $43,270 | $20.80 |
| 90th percentile (top earners) | $48,150 | $23.15 |
| Mean (average) | $40,310 | $19.38 |
How California Compares
| State | Median Annual | vs. California |
|---|---|---|
| California (current) | $37,200 | n/a |
| Washington | $38,400 | +3% |
| District of Columbia | $37,980 | +2% |
| Massachusetts | $36,910 | -1% |
| New York | $36,500 | -2% |
| Connecticut | $36,330 | -2% |
| Maine | $36,310 | -2% |
| Maryland | $35,990 | -3% |
| Vermont | $35,600 | -4% |
Showing top-paying states with available data. View all states →
Related Occupations in California
| Occupation | Median Annual | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Retail Salespersons | $37,250 | 352,860 |
| Cleaners of Vehicles and Equipment | $37,300 | 48,280 |
| Fast Food and Counter Workers | $37,010 | 438,950 |
| Sewing Machine Operators | $37,010 | 14,780 |
| Dishwashers | $37,440 | 73,050 |
| Personal Care and Service Workers, All Other | $37,440 | 5,590 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average Animal Caretakers salary in California?
The mean animal caretakers salary in California is $40,310 per year. The median (middle) salary is $37,200 per year.
What is the starting salary for a Animal Caretakers in California?
Entry-level animal caretakerss (10th percentile) in California typically earn around $34,420 per year. Workers at the 25th percentile earn approximately $35,700 per year.
What is the highest Animal Caretakers salary in California?
Top earners (90th percentile) in this occupation in California make approximately $48,150 per year. Those in the 75th percentile earn around $43,270 per year.
How does the California Animal Caretakers salary compare to the national average?
The median animal caretakers salary in California is $37,200, which is +11% above national average of $33,470.