Salaries in Richmond, CA

Here’s the thing about Richmond: you can’t just look at the median household income and think you’ve got it figured out. At $89,052, it sounds decent—until you remember the cost of living is 18% above the national average. That’s the real story here.

Let’s talk purchasing power. That $89k median doesn’t stretch as far as you’d hope. A one-bedroom apartment will set you back $2,304 a month, and when you factor in that COL index, the average salary of $56,495 effectively feels like just $47,797. It’s not exactly a bargain, but it’s not San Francisco-level insanity either. You’re paying a premium, but you’re also anchored to the Bay Area job market without the Bay Area price tag—well, mostly.

So who actually thrives here? The data points to a familiar split. Software developers are pulling in $134,208, which, even after adjusting for cost of living, is a solid $113,543. That’s the tech spillover from Silicon Valley, no question. You’ve also got steady work in accounting and the trades—electricians and real estate agents do okay. The city’s industrial past lingers, but it’s being replaced by logistics and port-related jobs. Chevron has a huge refinery here, and the Port of Richmond is a major employer. But let’s be honest: the education numbers tell a story. Only 34.9% of folks have a bachelor’s degree or higher, which tracks with the kinds of jobs that dominate the local economy.

Here’s my honest take: wages aren’t keeping up with the cost increases, not really. If you’re in tech or a specialized trade, you’ll be fine. If you’re in retail or service, it’s a grind. The city works financially for a specific type of person—someone with a skill that commands a Bay Area premium but who wants a slightly less brutal housing market.

Below, you’ll find a breakdown of the top-paying occupations, with and without the cost-of-living adjustment, to give you a clearer picture of where you might stand.