Salaries in Citrus Heights, CA

You might assume a Sacramento suburb like Citrus Heights is all sleepy streets and modest paychecks. But look closer at the 2026 data and you'll find a local economy with some sharp edges. The software developers here are pulling in six figures, while the median household income sits at $81,123—a number that feels both solid and surprisingly low for the region.

That $81,123 median has to stretch. With a cost of living index of 108.9—nearly 9% above the national average—the paycheck doesn't go as far as you'd hope. A one-bedroom apartment runs about $2,123 a month, which means even the average salary of $55,835 gets tight. The COL-adjusted average drops to $51,272, a reality check that points to a gap between what people earn and what it costs to live here comfortably. It’s not a bargain, but it’s not San Francisco, either.

So who’s thriving? The tech sector is clearly the big winner, with software developers earning a raw $130,657. Healthcare, led by registered nurses at $88,368, is another reliable pillar. You’ll also find a steady demand for accountants ($88,378) and trades like electricians ($63,193). The city’s largest employers are anchored in healthcare, retail, and a growing slice of the tech world, feeding off Sacramento’s broader ecosystem. Education levels—only 21.7% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher—hint at a workforce that’s more vocational than academic.

Here’s my honest take: the wages aren’t keeping up with the cost creep. That 5.2% unemployment rate is a bit high for a growing area, suggesting some friction for job seekers. This city works best for skilled tradespeople, healthcare workers, and tech talent who can command higher salaries. For everyone else, it’s a tight squeeze.

The numbers below will break down exactly where the money is—and who’s really making it work in Citrus Heights.