Butchers and Meat Cutters Salary in California (2025)
✓ Sourced directly from BLS OES · Checked for accuracy at every rebuild · First published: 2026-08-25 · Last updated: 2026-10-25
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Overview
The median wage for butchers and meat cutters in California is $44,290 per year (gross, before tax) — 10.3% above the US national median of $40,140 for this occupation. Figures are from BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2025). Around 19,000 people work in this occupation in California. Negotiating an offer in California? A good salary negotiation guide helps you make the case for the upper percentiles.
California Salary Percentiles
| Percentile | Annual (gross) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 10th | $35,470 | Entry level / lowest decile |
| 25th | $37,160 | Early career |
| 50th (median) | $44,290 | Typical pay |
| 75th | $57,140 | Experienced |
| 90th | $61,010 | Senior / highest decile |
Career Essentials
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Start $1 Trial →How California Compares
| State | Median salary | vs national |
|---|---|---|
| Washington | $51,670 | +28.7% |
| Alaska | $50,450 | +25.7% |
| Hawaii | $50,080 | +24.8% |
| Oregon | $49,360 | +23.0% |
| District of Columbia | $48,760 | +21.5% |
| Massachusetts | $48,430 | +20.7% |
| New Hampshire | $47,740 | +18.9% |
| Colorado | $47,490 | +18.3% |
| New York | $47,080 | +17.3% |
| Delaware | $47,040 | +17.2% |
| California | $44,290 | +10.3% |
All states for butchers and meat cutters →
Recommended Gear & Prep
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a butchers and meat cutters in California?
The median salary in California is $44,290 per year (gross, before tax), based on BLS OES May 2025 data. The mean is $46,820.
How does California pay compare to the US national average?
California is 10.3% above the US national median of $40,140 for this occupation.
Which US state pays butchers and meat cutters the most?
Washington has the highest median pay for this occupation at $51,670 per year. See the state comparison table above for more.
Data: BLS OES, May 2025 · Page built 2026-10-25