Urban Planner Salary in Los Angeles, CA
How much does a urban planner make in Los Angeles? Explore median, entry-level, and senior salaries adjusted for Los Angeles's cost of living.
Salary Breakdown by Experience Level
See how urban planner salaries break down across different pay periods in Los Angeles.
| Period | Entry Level | Median | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $64,634 | $106,000 | $148,658 |
| Monthly | $5,386 | $8,833 | $12,388 |
| Biweekly | $2,486 | $4,077 | $5,718 |
| Weekly | $1,243 | $2,038 | $2,859 |
| Hourly | $31 | $51 | $71 |
Los Angeles vs National Average
How Los Angeles's urban planner salaries compare to national figures.
Cost of Living in Los Angeles
About Urban Planner
Overview
Develop plans for urban development and community growth.
Education
Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning or related field
Key Skills
Growth Rate
Expected job growth: +16% over the next decade
Compare Cities: Urban Planner Salary
See Urban Planner salaries in other top cities.
Financial Tools to Explore
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Urban Planner Salary in Los Angeles, CA — Complete Guide
Median Salary Overview
The median salary for a urban planner in Los Angeles, CA is $106,000 per year, adjusted for the local cost of living index of 166. This figure reflects typical earnings for experienced professionals in this role, considering Los Angeles's unique economic conditions.
Salary Range and Experience Levels
Entry-level urban planner professionals in Los Angeles can expect to earn around $64,634 annually. As professionals gain experience, salaries typically increase, with senior-level urban planners earning approximately $148,658 per year. This represents a 130% increase from entry to senior level.
Cost of Living Adjustment
Los Angeles's cost of living index of 166 significantly impacts salary comparisons. As a higher cost-of-living city, salaries in Los Angeles are adjusted accordingly. This means that while the nominal salary may appear higher or lower than the national average of $81,640, the actual purchasing power must be considered in context.
Housing and Affordability
A significant portion of a urban planner's salary in Los Angeles typically goes toward housing. With a 1-bedroom apartment averaging $2,500 per month, housing represents about 28.3% of median salary. Financial experts generally recommend keeping housing expenses below 30% of gross income.
Career Growth and Opportunities
Urban Planners are in growing demand across the United States, with an expected job growth of 16% over the next decade. In Los Angeles, this translates to increasing opportunities and potential for salary growth as demand for experienced professionals continues to rise.