Paralegal Salary in California

How Much Does a Paralegal Make in California?

The typical Paralegal salary in California ranges from $39,200 to $72,800, with the national median at $56,000.

Assist lawyers with legal research, document preparation, and case management Your actual take-home pay as a Paralegal in California depends on:

• Your specific salary or hourly rate
• Federal income tax (10% to 37% progressive rates)
• FICA taxes (7.65% for Social Security and Medicare)
• California state income tax
• Local taxes (if applicable in your city)
• Health insurance and retirement contributions
• Cost of living in your specific city or region

Taxes for Paralegal in California

As a Paralegal working in California, you'll pay the following taxes on your income:

Federal Income Tax

Everyone in the US pays federal income tax, including Paralegal professionals. The federal tax system uses progressive tax brackets ranging from 10% to 37%, meaning you pay different rates on different portions of your income.

FICA Taxes

Social Security and Medicare taxes (FICA) total 7.65% of your gross income:

• Social Security: 6.2% (on first $168,600 in 2025)
• Medicare: 1.45% (no income limit)
• Additional Medicare: 0.9% on income over $200,000

California State Income Tax

California has a state income tax that applies to all Paralegal salaries earned in the state. The exact rate depends on California's tax brackets and your total income.

Use our California salary calculator to see your exact state tax based on your Paralegal salary.

Cost of Living for Paralegal in California

Your Paralegal salary goes further or shorter depending on the cost of living in your area of California. Key factors include:

• Housing: Rent or mortgage payments (often 25-35% of take-home pay)
• Transportation: Car payments, gas, insurance, or public transit
• Food: Groceries and dining out
• Healthcare: Insurance premiums, copays, prescriptions
• Utilities: Electric, gas, water, internet

A $56,000 Paralegal salary in a low-cost area of California provides significantly more buying power than the same salary in an expensive metro area.

Paralegal Salary Examples in California

Here's what different Paralegal salary levels look like in California:

Entry-Level Paralegal ($39,200)

• Gross annual salary: $39,200
• Federal tax: ~$4,704
• FICA: ~$2,999
• California state tax: Varies
• Approximate take-home: $27,440

Median Paralegal ($56,000)

• Gross annual salary: $56,000
• Federal tax: ~$8,960
• FICA: ~$4,284
• California state tax: Varies
• Approximate take-home: $37,520

Experienced Paralegal ($72,800)

• Gross annual salary: $72,800
• Federal tax: ~$16,016
• FICA: ~$5,569
• California state tax: Varies
• Approximate take-home: $43,680

Calculate your exact take-home pay: These are estimates. For precise calculations based on your specific situation, use our California salary calculator.

Compare Paralegal Salaries Across States

The same Paralegal salary can result in very different take-home pay depending on the state:

• No-tax states (TX, FL, NV, TN, WA): Higher take-home pay
• Low-tax states (AZ, IN, ND, PA): Moderate take-home pay
• High-tax states (CA, NY, NJ, HI): Lower take-home pay

A $56,000 Paralegal salary in California results in about $2,800 to $5,600 less take-home pay per year compared to the same salary in a no-tax state.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Paralegal salary in California?

The average Paralegal salary in California varies by experience, location within the state, and employer. The national median is $56,000, with typical California salaries ranging from $39,200 to $72,800.

How much does a Paralegal make after taxes in California?

After federal taxes, FICA, California state tax, and typical deductions, a Paralegal earning $56,000 in California takes home approximately $36,400 to $39,200 per year.

Is California a good state for Paralegal professionals?

It depends on your priorities. Consider California's cost of living, career opportunities, quality of life, and state tax burden when evaluating your options.

Next Steps

Ready to see your exact Paralegal take-home pay in California?

Use our California salary calculator →

Or compare Paralegal salaries across different states to find the best location for your career.