Top-Paying Jobs in California Right Now — And They’re Not in Tech!

Let’s take a closer look at which jobs in California pay the most right now — and how you can actually switch to one of them.

Why Tech Isn’t Number One Anymore

There are many more tech workers now than before. So while jobs like software engineering still pay well, they’re not growing as fast — and competition is high.

At the same time, California has a big shortage of skilled workers in other areas: doctors, pilots, lawyers, engineers, even construction managers. These jobs are now offering huge salaries because demand is so high.

🔹 Top 10 Highest-Paying Jobs in California (Not in Tech)

1. Anesthesiologist — $330,000+

Doctors who help during surgery. Very high demand in hospitals and clinics.

2. Oral Surgeon (Dental) — $310,000–$350,000

High pay, especially in private practice and small cities.

3. Airline or Private Jet Pilot — $200,000–$300,000

Pilots flying business jets can earn big — especially near Silicon Valley and LA.

4. Judge or Magistrate — $250,000+

Takes years of experience, but offers great stability and salary.

5. Corporate Lawyer — $220,000–$270,000

Especially in areas like biotech, energy, and startups.

6. Psychiatrist — $200,000–$260,000

Mental health demand is rising across California.

7. Renewable Energy Engineer — $190,000–$240,000

The state is investing heavily in solar and wind energy.

8. Senior Construction Manager — $180,000–$220,000

Lots of new housing projects = more leadership jobs.

9. Veterinary Surgeon — $170,000–$210,000

Especially needed in rural areas and farming regions.

10. Green Investment Manager — $180,000+ plus bonuses

Help companies invest in clean energy and sustainability.

Thinking About a Career Change?

If you’re not happy with your current job — or if it doesn’t pay enough — it might be time to explore a new path. Many of these top-paying jobs are open to people who are ready to retrain.

And you don’t need to be young or have an Ivy League degree to start.

✅ Jobs You Can Retrain For in California:

• Psychiatrist / Therapist — Start with a psychology degree, then go to grad school and get licensed.
• Pilot — Many flight schools offer training in 6–24 months (e.g., ATP, California Flight Academy).
• Veterinarian — UC Davis has one of the best vet schools in the world.
• Lawyer — After a bachelor’s degree, go to law school (UCLA, UC Hastings).
• Construction Manager — Community college or online courses + certification (PMP).

🔹 Where to Study:

• Community colleges all over California
• State universities (CSU system)
• Online platforms — Coursera, edX, LinkedIn Learning

🔹 Can You Afford It?

Yes! California offers many grants and support programs for adults going back to school:

• California College Promise Grant — free tuition at community colleges
• Workforce Development Boards — job training and career support
• CalWORKs — help for parents returning to school
• EDD Training Benefits — financial help for people changing careers

💬 Final Thoughts

Tech isn’t the only way to earn big money anymore. In 2025, California needs real-life problem-solvers: doctors, pilots, vets, lawyers, energy engineers. These careers are in demand — and they pay well.