Ophthalmology is the highest paying career on average in California, new data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics show.
The average wage for the role, which is specializing in eye care, is a staggering $347,690 while the state’s average income for all earners is just $80,690, the data from May 2025 said.
It follows a similar trend across the country, with careers in the medical field dominating the list for the highest-paying salaries.
Cardiologists, surgeons and radiologists represented the highest average wage earners — raking in salaries of more than $600,000 in some states.
It’s no surprise medical professions were among the highest earners, given the careers require years of additional school and specialized training.
In Georgia, the average annual wage of a cardiologist is $616,040 while the average wage among all occupations is just $65,920.
Outside of the healthcare sector, financial managers, CEOs, airline pilots and athletes were among the top five highest-paying jobs.
Pilots make an average of $288,659 while CEOs and athletes bring in $269,630 and $206,180, respectively.
Lawyers ranked #6 with an average annual wage of $185,850.
The annual wage data estimates include tips and commission, however overtime and bonuses are excluded.
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