20 Highest Paying City in California for Software Developers

Looking for the highest paying city in California? California is the place to be if you're a software developer looking for top salaries and exciting job opportunities. It is known as the heart of the tech industry, California attracts tech talent from around the world. In this blog, we'll take a look at the top 20 highest paying cities for software developers in California state. Whether you're an experienced developer planning your next career move or just starting out in the tech world, knowing where the best opportunities are can make all the difference. Let's dive in and explore these cities, where high salaries meet vibrant communities and endless career possibilities.

Highest Paying Cities in California in 2024

1. San Francisco, CA

San Francisco, CA, boasts an impressive average salary of $135,000, making it one of the highest paying cities in California. This vibrant city is a main hub of Silicon Valley for key tech companies like Google, Facebook, and Salesforce, offering a plethora of job opportunities for tech professionals.

San Francisco's tech scene is always changing, attracting top talent from around the world. The city's diverse culture, innovative spirit, and active startup community make it an exciting place for people working in tech. However, the average living expenses in California is high, with expensive housing and daily expenses.

Despite this, many find the vibrant city life, stunning bay views, and mild climate to be well worth the cost. Whether you're enjoying the eclectic food scene, exploring the picturesque neighborhoods, or attending tech meetups, San Francisco offers a unique blend of professional growth and lifestyle advantages.

2. Mountain View, CA

Mountain View, CA, offers an impressive average salary of $134,000, reflecting its status as a major player in the tech industry. Mountain View is one of the highest paying city in California for software developers. Home to key tech companies such as Google, LinkedIn, and Microsoft, the city provides abundant job opportunities for tech professionals.

The tech scene in Mountain View is robust, with a strong emphasis on innovation and cutting-edge technologies. Living in Mountain View combines the perks of a suburban feel with proximity to the bustling activity of Silicon Valley. The city is known for its well-maintained parks, excellent schools, and a variety of dining and shopping options.

However, like much of the Bay Area, California’s cost of living can be high, particularly in terms of housing. Despite this, many residents appreciate the balance of a quieter lifestyle with easy access to top-tier tech firms and the broader amenities of the Silicon Valley region.

3. Palo Alto, CA

Palo Alto, CA, stands out with an average salary of $133,000, underscoring its prominent position in the tech world. The city is home to influential tech companies like Tesla, Hewlett-Packard, and VMware, creating a wealth of job opportunities for tech professionals. Presence of such big companies make Palo Alto as one of the highest paying city in California in 2024.

Palo Alto's tech scene is deeply intertwined with innovation and entrepreneurship, largely influenced by its proximity to Stanford University. This academic connection fosters a culture of cutting-edge research and startup incubation. Living in Palo Alto offers a blend of suburban tranquility and urban sophistication, with tree-lined streets, excellent schools, and a variety of upscale dining and shopping options.

However, the cost of living in California USA is high, especially in terms of housing prices. Despite these costs, many residents find the exceptional quality of life, including access to parks, cultural amenities, and a tight-knit community, to be a worthy investment. Palo Alto’s unique combination of professional opportunities and lifestyle benefits makes it a desirable location for those in the tech industry.

4. San Jose, CA

San Jose, CA, offers a compelling average salary of $130,000, highlighting its importance as a central hub in the tech industry. Major tech companies such as Cisco, Adobe, and PayPal are headquartered here, providing a wide array of job opportunities for tech professionals. San Jose is also one of the main highest paying cities in California for software developers.

The tech scene in San Jose is vibrant and expansive, with a strong emphasis on innovation and development in various tech fields. Living in San Jose provides a unique blend of urban living with a touch of suburban charm. The city features diverse neighborhoods, top-notch schools, and a rich cultural scene with numerous museums, theaters, and restaurants.

While the life expenses in California is high, particularly in terms of housing, it is somewhat more affordable compared to nearby cities like San Francisco and Palo Alto. Residents enjoy a high quality of life, benefiting from a mild climate, numerous parks, and proximity to the scenic landscapes of Northern California. Overall, San Jose combines robust professional opportunities with a desirable living environment, making it a top choice for tech workers.

5. Cupertino, CA

Cupertino, CA, boasts an impressive average salary of $129,000, reflecting its vital role in the tech industry. The city is best known as the headquarters of Apple Inc., which dominates the local job market and attracts a multitude of tech professionals. Besides Apple, other significant tech companies and startups also contribute to Cupertino's growing tech scene. Apple’s brands who rule the world with their classy product make Cupertino one of the highest paying city in California.

The city's focus on innovation and technology is palpable, creating a dynamic environment for those in the industry. Living in Cupertino offers a suburban feel with highly regarded public schools, making it a popular choice for families. The city is clean, safe, and well-maintained, with plenty of parks and recreational facilities.

However, the California living expense, particularly housing, is high, reflecting its desirability and proximity to major tech hubs. Despite this, residents appreciate the high quality of life, excellent public amenities, and the sense of community. Cupertino provides a balanced lifestyle, combining professional opportunities with a pleasant and family-friendly living environment.

6. Sunnyvale, CA

Sunnyvale, CA, offers an attractive average salary of $128,000, highlighting its significance in the tech industry. The city hosts key tech companies like LinkedIn, Yahoo, and Juniper Networks, providing abundant job opportunities for tech professionals. LinkedIn, one of the biggest professional networking platforms, made Sunnyvale as one of the highest paying cities in California for tech people.

Sunnyvale's tech scene is bustling and diverse, characterized by a strong presence of established firms and innovative startups. Living in Sunnyvale presents a blend of urban and suburban vibes, with well-kept neighborhoods, excellent schools, and a variety of dining and shopping options.

The California price of living is high, especially regarding housing, but it remains a sought-after location due to its quality of life and proximity to other major tech hubs in Silicon Valley. Sunnyvale’s residents enjoy a mild climate, numerous parks, and recreational activities which make it a pleasant place to live. Sunnyvale's combination of career opportunities and a high standard of living makes it an appealing choice for tech workers seeking a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle with remote jobs in the US.

7. Menlo Park, CA

Menlo Park, CA, offers a notable average salary of $127,000, reflecting its critical role within the tech industry. The city is home to major tech companies such as Facebook (now Meta), SRI International, and various venture capital firms, providing a wealth of job opportunities for tech professionals. Meta’s presence is enough to make Menlo Park one of the highest paying city in California.

Menlo Park's tech scene is heavily influenced by its proximity to Silicon Valley and Stanford University, fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. Living in Menlo Park provides a suburban atmosphere with upscale neighborhoods, excellent schools, and a strong sense of community. The cost of life in California is high, particularly in terms of housing, which is among the most expensive in the region.

Despite these costs, residents value the high quality of life, with access to beautiful parks, a variety of dining and shopping options, and a mild climate. Menlo Park offers a unique combination of professional growth and a pleasant living environment, making it an attractive location for those in the tech industry.

8. Santa Clara, CA

Santa Clara, CA, features an appealing average salary of $125,000, underscoring its importance in the tech sector. Santa Clara city is home to influential tech companies such as Intel, Nvidia, and Applied Materials which numerous job opportunities for tech professionals. Santa Clara is already listed as one of the highest paying cities in California for software developers.

The tech scene in Santa Clara is robust and innovative, with a strong emphasis on semiconductor technology and hardware development. Living in Santa Clara provides a mix of suburban comfort and urban convenience, with well-maintained neighborhoods, reputable schools, and a diverse range of dining and shopping options.

The cost of living is high, particularly in terms of housing, but it is slightly more affordable compared to some neighboring tech hubs. Residents enjoy a high quality of life, with access to numerous parks, recreational activities, and a temperate climate. Additionally, Santa Clara's central location within Silicon Valley makes it an ideal spot for tech workers who value professional opportunities and a comfortable living environment.

9. San Mateo, CA

San Mateo, CA, boasts an impressive average salary of $124,000, reflecting its significant role within the tech industry. The city hosts key tech companies like GoPro, Roblox, and SolarCity, offering a variety of job opportunities for tech professionals. San Mateo is one of the highest paying city in California for software developers.

San Mateo's tech scene is vibrant and diverse, characterized by a blend of established companies and innovative startups. Living in San Mateo provides a suburban feel with urban amenities, featuring well-kept neighborhoods, excellent schools, and a wide range of dining and shopping options.

The cost of living in California is high, particularly regarding housing, but it remains a desirable location due to its quality of life and proximity to other major tech hubs in the Bay Area. San Mateo’s residents enjoy a mild climate, numerous parks and recreational activities which make it a pleasant place to live. San Mateo's combination of career opportunities and a high standard of living makes it an appealing choice for tech workers seeking a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.

10. Los Gatos, CA

Los Gatos, CA, offers an attractive average salary of $123,000, reflecting its status as a desirable location within the tech industry. The city is home to key tech companies like Netflix, as well as a variety of innovative startups, providing ample job opportunities for tech professionals. Biggest streaming companies like Netflix, make Los Gatos as one of the highest paying cities in California.

Los Gatos' tech scene is thriving, driven by a blend of established firms and entrepreneurial ventures. Living in Los Gatos combines the charm of a small town with the conveniences of modern living, featuring picturesque neighborhoods, top-rated schools, and a vibrant downtown area with diverse dining and shopping options.

The cost of living in California is high, particularly in terms of housing, but residents often find the quality of life to be worth the investment. With a mild climate, beautiful parks, and recreational activities, Los Gatos offers a pleasant and fulfilling living environment. Its proximity to other major Silicon Valley tech hubs makes it an ideal location for tech workers who appreciate a balance of professional opportunities and a high-quality lifestyle.

11. Fremont, CA

Fremont, CA, boasts an impressive average salary of $122,000, making it an attractive hub for tech professionals. The city's tech scene is vibrant, with numerous opportunities at key tech companies such as Tesla, Seagate Technology, and Lam Research. Tesla's presence in the state makes it one of the highest paying city in California for tech people.

These industry giants offer a range of roles from engineering to data science, reflecting the diverse opportunities available in Fremont. Living in Fremont is equally appealing, with its safe neighborhoods, excellent schools, and a variety of recreational activities.

The city's proximity to Silicon Valley ensures that residents can enjoy a balanced lifestyle, with easy access to both cutting-edge technology and the natural beauty of nearby parks and trails. Whether you're seeking career growth or a comfortable living environment, Fremont offers a compelling mix of both.

12. Milpitas, CA

Milpitas, CA, offers an attractive average salary of $120,000, making it a competitive option for tech professionals. The city's tech landscape is thriving, with significant opportunities at prominent companies like Cisco Systems, KLA Corporation, and Western Digital.

These companies provide a wide range of job opportunities, from software development to hardware engineering, catering to various tech specializations. Milpitas also boasts a high quality of life, with excellent schools, diverse dining options, and plenty of shopping centers.

The city's strategic location in Silicon Valley means residents can easily commute to other major tech hubs while enjoying the benefits of a more suburban lifestyle. Milpitas combines professional opportunities with a comfortable living environment, making it a desirable place for tech workers and their families.

13. Oakland, CA

Oakland, CA, with an average salary of $112,000, presents a dynamic and growing tech scene. The city is home to a variety of tech companies such as Pandora, Sungevity, and numerous innovative startups, offering roles in software development, data analytics, and renewable energy technologies.

Oakland's tech community is known for its collaborative spirit and emphasis on social impact, attracting professionals passionate about making a difference. Living in Oakland provides a unique blend of urban excitement and natural beauty, with a rich cultural scene, diverse culinary offerings, and extensive parks and recreational areas.

The city's vibrant arts and music scene, combined with its excellent public transportation options, make it an attractive place for tech workers seeking both professional growth and a lively, well-rounded lifestyle.

14. Santa Monica, CA

Santa Monica, CA, offers tech professionals an appealing average salary of $111,000 and a thriving tech scene. The city is a prominent hub for technology and entertainment, with key companies like Snap Inc., Hulu, and Activision Blizzard providing a wide array of job opportunities in software development, media technology, and digital content creation.

Santa Monica's tech sector is characterized by its innovation and creativity, often attracting startups and established firms alike. Living in Santa Monica is equally enticing, with its beautiful beaches, excellent dining, and vibrant cultural scene.

The city's laid-back, beach-town atmosphere is balanced by its proximity to Los Angeles, providing residents with the best of both worlds. With top-rated schools, abundant recreational activities, and a strong sense of community, Santa Monica is a highly desirable place for tech professionals and their families to live and work.

15. Los Angeles, CA

Los Angeles, CA, with an average salary of $110,000, is a major player in the tech industry, offering a multitude of opportunities. The city's tech scene is diverse and dynamic, featuring key companies such as Google, SpaceX, and Hulu. Los Angeles is city which provide one of top average US Salary by state California.

These organizations provide a wide range of roles, from software engineering and data science to aerospace technology and digital media. LA is also home to a burgeoning startup ecosystem, fostering innovation across various sectors. Living in Los Angeles means enjoying a vibrant cultural scene, world-class entertainment, and an array of dining and shopping options.

The city’s neighborhoods offer a mix of urban and suburban living, catering to different lifestyles. Additionally, LA's beautiful weather and iconic beaches enhance the quality of life, making it a desirable destination for tech professionals seeking both career advancement and an enjoyable living environment.

16. San Diego, CA

San Diego, CA, boasts an attractive average salary of $109,000 and a thriving tech scene that continues to grow. The city is home to key tech companies such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Teradata, offering a variety of job opportunities in fields like telecommunications, biotechnology, and data analytics.

San Diego's tech industry is known for its focus on innovation and cutting-edge research, making it a hub for professionals looking to work on impactful projects. The city's excellent living conditions further enhance its appeal. With beautiful beaches, a pleasant climate, and a range of outdoor activities, San Diego provides a high quality of life.

The city also features top-rated schools, diverse dining options, and a vibrant cultural scene. Whether you're looking to advance your career or enjoy a balanced lifestyle, San Diego offers an ideal blend of professional opportunities and living amenities.

17. Pasadena, CA

Pasadena, CA, with an average salary of $108,000, is a noteworthy destination for tech professionals. The city hosts prominent tech companies such as Caltech, NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, and OpenX, offering diverse job opportunities in fields like aerospace, scientific research, and digital advertising technology. Pasadena provides a good opportunity and is considered as one of highest paying city in California.

Pasadena's tech scene is marked by its strong emphasis on innovation and research, attracting highly skilled professionals from various tech sectors. The city's living conditions are equally appealing, featuring charming neighborhoods, excellent schools, and a rich cultural heritage.

Residents enjoy a vibrant arts scene, numerous dining options, and various recreational activities, all set against the backdrop of beautiful southern California weather. Pasadena's unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities makes it an attractive place for tech workers seeking a high quality of life and career growth opportunities.

18. Venice, CA

Venice, CA, offers an average salary of $107,000 and a unique tech scene characterized by its creative and entrepreneurial spirit. The city is home to innovative tech companies such as Snapchat, Bird, and Dollar Shave Club, providing diverse job opportunities in digital media, transportation technology, and e-commerce.

Venice's tech community is known for its focus on disruptive technologies and startup culture, attracting forward-thinking professionals eager to make an impact. Living in Venice offers a vibrant and eclectic lifestyle, with its iconic boardwalk, artistic community, and diverse dining options.

Residents can enjoy the laid-back beach atmosphere while still being close to the amenities of Los Angeles. With its blend of innovation and beachside charm, Venice provides an attractive environment for tech workers seeking both professional opportunities and a distinctive coastal lifestyle.

19. Sacramento, CA

Sacramento, CA, boasts an average salary of $105,000 and is emerging as a promising tech hub. The city hosts key tech companies like Intel, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, and Aerojet Rocketdyne, providing a range of job opportunities for tech professionals in areas such as clean tech, health tech, and government technology solutions. Sacramento's tech scene is on the rise, with a growing number of startups and innovation centers contributing to its development.

Living in Sacramento offers a blend of urban amenities and suburban comforts. The city features diverse neighborhoods, good schools, and a range of cultural and recreational opportunities. Compared to Silicon Valley, the cost of living in Sacramento California is more affordable, particularly in terms of housing, making it an attractive option for tech workers looking for a lower cost of living in California USA without sacrificing career prospects.

Residents enjoy a relatively mild climate, proximity to outdoor activities like hiking and boating along the Sacramento River, and a burgeoning food and arts scene. Sacramento's tech community continues to expand, providing ample opportunities for career growth and a comfortable living environment for tech professionals.

20. Irvine, CA

Irvine, CA, offers an average salary of $105,000 and is a notable player in the tech industry. The city is home to key tech companies like Broadcom, Blizzard Entertainment, and Vizio, providing diverse job opportunities for tech professionals. Irvine's tech scene is dynamic and innovative, with a focus on sectors such as semiconductors, gaming, and consumer electronics.

Living in Irvine provides a high quality of life, with well-planned neighborhoods, excellent schools, and a range of recreational amenities. The city boasts a thriving arts and culture scene, with numerous theaters, museums, and galleries. The cost of living in California, Irvine is relatively high, especially in terms of housing, but residents often find the amenities and quality of life to be worth the investment.

Irvine enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and warm summers, making it ideal for outdoor activities year-round. The city's proximity to beaches, parks, and hiking trails adds to its appeal. Overall, Irvine offers a blend of career opportunities in the tech sector and a desirable living environment, making it a sought-after location for tech professionals.

Wrapping Up!

It's clear that California remains a powerhouse in the tech industry. The State is the hub of the highest paying city in California for software developers, offering some of the highest salaries in the nation. From the bustling streets of San Francisco to the tech-savvy corridors of Mountain View and Palo Alto, each city on our list presents unique opportunities and challenges for IT professionals. Whether you're drawn to the innovation hubs of Silicon Valley or the vibrant cultural scenes in cities like Los Angeles and San Diego, California has something for every tech enthusiast.

As you consider your next career move, keep in mind the factors that contribute to each city's appeal, from job opportunities and average salaries to cost of living and lifestyle amenities. The Golden State's diverse array of high-paying cities ensures that you can find a place that not only meets your professional aspirations but also supports your personal growth and well-being.

We hope this guide has provided valuable insights to help you navigate your career in software development.

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FAQs

1. What is the highest pay rate in California?

The highest pay rate in California varies by industry, but tech executives can earn well over $200,000 annually.

2. Is California the highest paying state?

California is one of the highest paying states, especially for tech and entertainment industry jobs, but it is often rivaled by states like New York.

3. Is $30 an hour good in California?

$30 an hour is decent in California, but the cost of living can make it challenging to live comfortably in major cities.

4. Is $100,000 USD a good salary in California?

$100,000 is a good salary in California, though it may stretch thinner in high-cost areas like San Francisco and Los Angeles.

5. Is $200,000 salary in California good?

A $200,000 salary in California is considered very good and allows for a comfortable lifestyle in most parts of the state.