Source: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025, SOC 49-3051. Rank and differences are derived from published figures. How we use it.
How California compares
California's median is $62,330, $4,780 (8.3%) above the U.S. median. It ranks 10th, one of the ten best-paying 50 states and territories with data.
The top 10% earn $81,320 or more and the bottom 10% under $47,190. That range is narrower than the national one.
The average ($65,630) is 5.3% above the median, so a group of well-paid mechanics pulls it up.
About 1,230 marine mechanics work in California, 5.3% of the U.S. total. For the size of its workforce, California has fewer marine mechanics than the U.S. average (0.45×).
Pay distribution: California vs. United States
California median $62,330
United States median $57,550
- 10th–90th percentile
- 25th–75th percentile
- Median
| Measure | California annual | California hourly | U.S. annual | U.S. hourly |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $47,190 | $22.69 | $36,950 | $17.76 |
| 25th percentile | $56,730 | $27.27 | $46,750 | $22.48 |
| Median (50th) | $62,330 | $29.97 | $57,550 | $27.67 |
| 75th percentile | $73,600 | $35.39 | $66,620 | $32.03 |
| 90th percentile | $81,320 | $39.10 | $79,330 | $38.14 |
| Mean (average) | $65,630 | $31.55 | $58,070 | $27.92 |
States with similar pay
Questions about marine mechanic pay in California
How much does a marine mechanic make in California?
The median is $62,330 a year, or $29.97 an hour (May 2025). The average is $65,630.
Is California a good state for marine mechanic pay?
It ranks 10th of 50, 8.3% above the U.S. median. Living costs are not factored in, so compare with what housing costs where you would work.
How many marine mechanics work in California?
About 1,230.