The average salary for an anesthesia technician in California is approximately $62,000 per year. Entry-level positions start around $50,000, while experienced technicians in urban areas can earn over $75,000. Salaries vary based on experience, location, and employer type, with hospitals and surgical centers offering competitive pay.
Anesthesia technician salaries in California are among the highest in the country. The statewide average hourly wage ranges from $54.06 to $100.00, depending on the data source. Annual salaries typically fall between $52,477 and $75,000, with some technicians at large hospitals earning more.
Average Anesthesia Technician Salary in California
Anesthesia technicians in California earn significantly more than the national average. Pay depends on factors like location, certification, and the healthcare facility.
| Source/Region | Hourly Rate | Annual Salary | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Statewide Average (Vivian) | $100.00 | – | 67% higher than US average |
| Statewide Average (ZipRecruiter) | $54.06 | – | As of May 2025 |
| Statewide Average (Salary.com) | – | $52,477 | Range: $41,168–$67,078 |
| Los Robles Hospital (Indeed) | $42.18–$49.68 | – | Based in Thousand Oaks, CA |
| Kaiser Permanente (Indeed) | $27.41–$42.50 | – | Range varies by role and location |
| San Francisco (Vivian) | $38.24 | – | 4% lower than US average |
| Los Angeles (Learn.org, 2019) | $26.49 | – | Outdated, for comparison only |
These figures highlight how pay can differ widely based on job title, location, and employer.
Top-Paying Cities for Anesthesia Technicians in California
Urban areas offer higher pay due to cost of living and job demand.
- San Francisco: One of the highest-paying cities for anesthesia technicians, but also one of the most expensive.
- Los Angeles: Offers many job openings but some salaries remain below the state average.
- San Diego: Competitive pay with steady demand in large hospitals.
- Fontana and Downey: Suburban cities with large hospital systems and competitive benefits.
Pay varies by city based on local healthcare needs, competition, and facility type.
How Experience Impacts Anesthesia Technician Salary
More experience means higher salary. Entry-level anesthesia technicians in California earn around $50,000 per year. Technicians with 5+ years of experience and certifications can exceed $75,000 annually.
Experience levels:
- 0 – 2 years: $50,000 – $55,000
- 3 – 5 years: $60,000 – $68,000
- 6+ years: $70,000 – $80,000+
Technicians increase their value by mastering anesthesia equipment, assisting in surgery, and developing core technical skills. Working directly with an anesthesiologist and demonstrating competency in operating room tasks often leads to promotions and raises.
How Anesthesia Technician Salaries Compare to Similar Healthcare Jobs
Anesthesia technician salaries rank competitively among allied health roles in California. However, they typically earn less than surgical technologists or registered nurses.
| Job Title | Average Salary (CA) |
|---|---|
| Anesthesia Technician | $62,000 |
| Surgical Technologist | $73,000 |
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | $39,000 |
| Respiratory Therapist | $84,000 |
Although anesthesia technicians earn less than some roles, they require less education and benefit from steady job growth and clear career paths.
Do Certifications and Education Affect Salary?
Yes. Certified anesthesia technicians earn more than non-certified peers. The ASATT (American Society of Anesthesia Technologists & Technicians) certification signals advanced skills and training.
Salary by education level:
- On-the-job training only: ~$50,000
- Certificate program graduate: ~$58,000
- ASATT-certified technician: ~$65,000–$75,000
Technicians who attend a formal program, pass the ASATT exam, and develop strong procedural knowledge in patient care and anesthesia support increase their earning potential significantly.
Benefits, Bonuses, and Other Compensation
In addition to base pay, anesthesia technicians in California often receive valuable benefits, including:
- Health insurance
- Retirement plans
- Paid time off
- Tuition reimbursement
- Shift differentials (extra pay for nights and weekends)
Some hospitals also offer bonuses for hiring, retention, or certification. These non-salary earnings can add $5,000–$10,000+ per year to the total compensation package.
Is an Anesthesia Technician Career Worth It in California?
Yes. Anesthesia technicians in California earn strong salaries, especially in high-demand cities. The field offers job security, diverse employer options, and a path to higher earnings through certification and experience.
Most anesthesia technicians work in operating rooms, assisting anesthesiologists and maintaining equipment. With hundreds of job openings each year and rising healthcare demand, this career provides a reliable and rewarding opportunity in the state.
Popular FAQs
Below are common questions we get asked.
Why do anesthesia technician salaries in California vary so widely between sources?
Salaries vary due to differences in data sources, job titles, location, and experience. Some platforms use self-reported data while others use employer surveys. Titles like “technician” or “technologist” reflect different education levels and pay. Urban areas like San Francisco often pay more. Certified technicians or those with more experience earn higher wages.
Are anesthesia technician salaries in California expected to grow in the next five years?
Yes, salaries are likely to grow due to demand, cost of living adjustments, and evolving surgical technologies. California’s healthcare industry continues to expand, increasing the need for skilled anesthesia support staff.
Do anesthesia technicians in California receive additional compensation beyond base salary?
Yes. Many receive overtime pay, shift differentials, bonuses, and full benefits packages. These extras can raise total compensation above listed base pay figures.
Key Takeaways
- Average salary: ~$62,000/year
- Top earners: $75,000+ in urban hospitals
- Best-paying cities: San Francisco, San Diego, Los Angeles
- Certifications like ASATT improve pay
- Hospitals and surgical centers offer the best total compensation
