Here’s How CA Salaries Compare To Other U.S. States

CALIFORNIA — Workers in the Golden State take home more money, on average, compared to workers around the nation, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, those paychecks are being eaten by the high cost of living.

California ranked in the top 10 of the highest-earning states in the country with a median annual wage of $54,030. At ninth place on the list, Californian workers earn more than the national average wage of $48,060.

Known as one of the most expensive states to live in, California is also home to some of the costliest cities in America. Those living in San Jose ranked second-costliest in the nation, behind New York City, needing to make $136,739 to live comfortably as an individual and $334,547 for a family of four, according to a ranking from consumer finance website SmartAsset.

The site ranked major U.S. cities by how much individuals and families need to earn to afford necessities and entertainment activities. Using that measure, seven of the ten costliest cities in the nation are in California.

To live comfortably, a family in Irvine and Santa Ana would need to earn $291,450 and $289,453 in San Diego. However, wages in California aren't keeping up with the cost of living.

See related: This Is How Much It Costs To 'Live Comfortably' In CA

See the top 10 highest-earning U.S. states below:

1. Massachusetts: $60,690
2. Washington: $59,920
3. New York: $56,840
4. Alaska: $56,140
5. Connecticut: $56,130
6. Maryland: $55,810
7. New Jersey: $54,860
8. Colorado: $54,050
9. California: $54,030
10. Rhode Island: $50,970

See the bottom 10 lowest-earning U.S. states below:

1. Mississippi: $37,500
2. Arkansas: $39,060
3. West Virginia: $39,770
4. Louisiana: $41,320
5. Alabama: $41,350
6. Oklahoma: $41,480
7. South Carolina: $42,220
8. New Mexico: $43,620
9. South Dakota: $43,680
10. Kentucky: $43,730