Nail tech salary in California
Nail tech pay in California per BLS 2025: median $17.61/hour, $36,630/year. Compared with the US and metro areas in the state.
Hourly (median)
$17.61
Annual (median)
$36,630
Annual (mean)
$39,730
Employed
39,210
2% higher than the national median ($17.19/hour)
By metro area in the state
| Area | Hourly (median) | Annual (median) |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles–Orange County | $17.58 | $36,570 |
| Sacramento–Stockton | $17.19 | $35,760 |
| Sacramento–Stockton | $16.99 | $35,340 |
| San Diego | $17.63 | $36,670 |
| San Jose–Bay Area | $20.00 | $41,600 |
| San Jose–Bay Area | $20.71 | $43,070 |
About the data
Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey, 2025, occupation Manicurists and Pedicurists (SOC 39-5092). It includes employee tips and commissions but EXCLUDES self-employed techs (booth renters, 1099), so it is usually lower than pay advertised by salons.