California pays clergy more than any other state — its $77,850 median leads all 50 states and D.C. reporting wage data.
The 10th-to-90th percentile range runs from $43,080 to $136,030 — a $92,950 spread, 49% wider than the national $62,580 range.
California employs roughly 11.0% of all clergy in the country (6,390 workers).
Salary Range: 10th to 90th Percentile
Full Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| 10th percentile (entry-level) | $43,080 | $20.71 |
| 25th percentile | $60,910 | $29.28 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $77,850 | $37.43 |
| 75th percentile | $98,300 | $47.26 |
| 90th percentile (top earners) | $136,030 | $65.40 |
| Mean (average) | $86,900 | $41.78 |
How California Compares
| State | Median Annual | vs. California |
|---|---|---|
| California (current) | $77,850 | n/a |
| Washington | $77,530 | +0% |
| Nevada | $70,150 | -10% |
| Massachusetts | $67,830 | -13% |
| Vermont | $66,860 | -14% |
| New Hampshire | $66,670 | -14% |
| Georgia | $65,510 | -16% |
| Minnesota | $65,350 | -16% |
| Connecticut | $65,040 | -16% |
Showing top-paying states with available data. View all states →
Related Occupations in California
| Occupation | Median Annual | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Flight Attendants | $77,870 | 15,760 |
| Tool and Die Makers | $77,800 | 1,380 |
| Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment | $78,020 | 5,140 |
| Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Except Engines | $78,060 | 21,170 |
| Public Safety Telecommunicators | $78,210 | 8,510 |
| Interior Designers | $77,360 | 8,360 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average Clergy salary in California?
The mean clergy salary in California is $86,900 per year. The median (middle) salary is $77,850 per year.
What is the starting salary for a Clergy in California?
Entry-level clergys (10th percentile) in California typically earn around $43,080 per year. Workers at the 25th percentile earn approximately $60,910 per year.
What is the highest Clergy salary in California?
Top earners (90th percentile) in this occupation in California make approximately $136,030 per year. Those in the 75th percentile earn around $98,300 per year.
How does the California Clergy salary compare to the national average?
The median clergy salary in California is $77,850, which is +28% above national average of $60,820.