Recent figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics reveal that ophthalmology holds the title of the highest-paying job in California. As of May 2025, specialists in eye care earn an average of $347,690, which is quite a leap from the state’s average income of $80,690.
This pattern isn’t unique to California; across the nation, many medical professions dominate the lists of top earners. For instance, cardiologists, surgeons, and radiologists can make over $600,000 in certain regions.
The extensive education and training required for healthcare professions inevitably contribute to these high salaries. In Georgia, for instance, cardiologists average $616,040, contrasted with the overall average wage of just $65,920.
Outside of healthcare, financial managers, CEOs, airline pilots, and athletes also find themselves among the top earners. For example, pilots see average salaries around $288,659, while CEOs and athletes earn averages of $269,630 and $206,180, respectively. Lawyers follow closely behind, with an annual income averaging around $185,850.
These salary estimates typically account for tips and commissions but don’t include overtime or bonuses.
Interestingly, it was noted earlier this year that some public employees in California could earn up to $47,000 monthly in certain high-ranking state jobs. One notable position is the deputy chief investment officer at CalPERS, where salary ranges from $28,325 to $47,208 per month. This role, based in Sacramento, supports investments for one of the largest public pension funds, which had assets totaling around $599.5 billion as of early January.
The job entails a senior leadership position focused on private market investments, although the exact amount of the portfolio managed wasn’t mentioned. However, the role is considered quite pivotal within a complex organization.
Pension paydates extend beyond just the financial sector. For instance, another position within CalPERS is for a global fixed income managing investment director, with salaries between $25,750 and $42,916 for overseeing the fixed income business.
Some positions within the pension fund may also offer performance-based incentives and long-term bonuses related to fund performance, sometimes soaring into the seven figures based on those postings.
In fact, the aforementioned deputy chief investment officer can earn a base salary of up to $47,208 per month, plus eligibility for performance awards potentially equating to 180% of the salary based on fund results. While these perks aren’t guaranteed, they can substantially boost total earnings during prosperous years.
Furthermore, it’s noteworthy that not all high-paying roles are strictly Wall Street-focused; the state also has significant compensation levels in its prison system. For example, a Sacramento County position related to prison medical administration can earn between $33,740 and $42,090 monthly, ensuring proper health care oversight for inmates.
Roles like chief psychiatrist at North Kern State Prison offer monthly pay of $34,420 to $35,280, focusing on directing mental health services within the facility.
CalCareers frequently lists thousands of state job vacancies, including many high-paying roles that remain open indefinitely.
