Average Pediatrician Salary in California

As of October 13, 2025, a Pediatrician in California earns approximately $305,000 per year ($25,417 monthly). Based on an average 45-hour work week, this translates to about $130 per hour. Looking for a broader view? See the Pediatrician salary overview or compare nearby states below.

How Much Do Pediatricians Make in California?

From 7 verified physician salary submissions in California, SalaryDr is seeing total compensation ranging from $280,000 to $320,000, with top performers (90th percentile) earning up to $450,000 annually. Compared to the national median of $305,000, Pediatrician salaries in California are in line with the national median.

Bonuses, Hours Worked, and Job Satisfaction

In California, the salary progression for pediatrician physicians shows significant growth potential. Entry-level positions start at $310,000, while those with more than 10 years of experience earn a typical salary of $305,000 - a -2% increase.

Local Practice Settings and Employers in California

On average, base salary accounts for 85% of total compensation—about $260,000—with the remaining amount coming from bonuses, profit sharing, and incentives.

Cost of Living and Market Factors in California

California offers unique advantages for pediatrician physicians, including high demand in major metropolitan areas and competitive compensation packages. The cost of living in California is higher than the national average but offset by higher salaries.

Work-Life Balance in California

Local pediatrician physicians report 4.0/5 career satisfaction, with 43% of those surveyed saying they would choose this specialty again.

Salary Distribution

Distribution based on 7 verified physician salary submissions.

Median Salary: $305,000

Physician Satisfaction in Pediatrics

Satisfaction Rating

4.0/5

Average satisfaction rating reported by Pediatrics physicians (1-5 scale).

Would Choose Again

43%

Percentage of Pediatrics physicians who would choose this specialty again.

Career Satisfaction

Physicians cite the variety of cases and patient relationships as most rewarding aspects of this specialty.

Primary Challenges

On-call demands, administrative burden, and work-life balance are cited as the top challenges.

Salary Comparison

Location Statistics

Average Salary

$307,143

Median Salary

$305,000

Salary Range

$280,000 - $320,000

National Comparison

National Average

$307,143

Difference

+0% vs National Average

Sample Size

7 local / 7 national reports

Pediatrician Salaries by City in California

Back to Pediatrician Overview →

Browse city-level salary data for pediatrician physicians in California. Click any city to see detailed compensation information for that location.

* Numbers indicate verified salary reports per city

Compare California to Nearby States

View All States →

See how Pediatrics salaries in California compare to neighboring states.

Pediatrics Market Insights: California

Local market conditions, cost of living, and opportunities for Pediatrics physicians in California.

Cost of Living Analysis

Overall Cost Index:138% of national average
Housing Costs:154% of national average
Healthcare Costs:109% of national average
State Income Tax:Yes
Tax Burden:High
Salary Adjusted for Cost of Living:
$221,014
Lower cost of living increases purchasing power by -28%

Major Healthcare Employers

1
Kaiser Permanente
Major healthcare employer in California
2
Sutter Health
Major healthcare employer in California
3
Cedars-Sinai
Major healthcare employer in California
4
UCLA Health
Major healthcare employer in California
5
Stanford Health Care
Major healthcare employer in California
Career Tip: These health systems often offer competitive Pediatrics positions with comprehensive benefits packages.

Market Opportunities

Academic Medicine

Teaching hospitals and medical schools offer Pediatrics positions with research opportunities.

Private Practice

Established and startup practices seeking Pediatrics physicians with partnership potential.

Locum Tenens

High-demand temporary positions offering flexibility and competitive hourly rates.

Key Market Factors for Pediatrics in California

Advantages:

  • • Multiple major healthcare employers
  • • Growing demand for Pediatrics services
  • • Established medical community

Considerations:

  • • Above-average housing costs
  • • Higher tax burden
  • • Malpractice insurance requirements
  • • State licensing and credentialing process
  • • Competition from established practices

Considering a move to California?

Compare Pediatrics salaries across different locations and practice settings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to the most common questions about physician salaries in Pediatrics in California.

Data Source: All salary information is based on verified submissions from practicing physicians and is updated regularly to reflect current market conditions.

How to Transition to Pediatrics in California

Complete guide for physicians looking to transition careers or relocate to Pediatrics in California.

6 Steps6 Months
1

Assess Your Current Position

Evaluate your current specialty, compensation, job satisfaction, and career goals. Identify specific reasons for wanting to transition and what you hope to achieve.

2

Research Target Opportunities

Investigate Pediatrics opportunities in California, including salary ranges, practice settings, required qualifications, and market demand.

Learn more →
3

Identify Skill Gaps

Compare your current qualifications with requirements for your target role. Identify any additional training, certifications, or experience needed for a successful transition.

4

Network with Professionals

Connect with Pediatrics physicians in California through medical associations, conferences, and professional networks. Conduct informational interviews to gain insights.

5

Develop Transition Plan

Create a timeline for your transition including any required training, licensing requirements, financial planning for potential income changes, and family considerations.

6

Execute Your Transition

Begin applying for positions, complete any required training, and manage the logistics of your career change including contract negotiations and relocation if necessary.

Professional Tip: This guide provides general recommendations. Always consult with career advisors, mentors, and legal professionals for personalized advice specific to your situation.

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About Our Data

Our salary data is based on anonymous submissions from practicing physicians across the United States. We verify and clean the data to ensure accuracy and remove outliers.

Last updated: October 13, 2025