Drafting schools in Costa Mesa, CA
12 schools within 30 miles of Costa Mesa, CA offer CAD & drafting programs, and the closest is Santa Ana College in Santa Ana, 7 miles away. CAD drafters in California earn a median $82,510 a year, according to the BLS.
- Within 30 miles
- 12
- Closest
- 7 mi
- Public colleges
- 12
- Median pay in CA
- $82,510
What CAD drafters earn in California
Median pay means half earn more and half earn less. Pay grows with experience, certifications and overtime.
- Median pay
- $82,510
- $39.67 an hour
- Typical range
- $50,200–$128,160
- 10th to 90th percentile
- Jobs in CA
- 3,640
- Job growth, 2025–35
- -6%
- 2,900 openings a year (U.S.)
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025, and Employment Projections.
Hear from the best fits near Costa Mesa
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Frequently asked questions
What are the closest CAD & drafting schools to Costa Mesa?
The closest are Santa Ana College (Santa Ana, 7 mi), Golden West College (Huntington Beach, 7 mi), and Irvine Valley College (Irvine, 8 mi). In total, 12 schools within 30 miles teach CAD & drafting.
How much do CAD & drafting programs near Costa Mesa cost?
For the 12 schools nearby that report it, the average yearly net price after aid ranges from $2,090 to $14,379. Ask each school for the full program cost, including tools, books and exam fees.
How much do CAD drafters make near Costa Mesa?
Across California, the median pay is $82,510 a year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay varies by employer, experience and certifications.
How do I choose a CAD & drafting school in Costa Mesa?
Ask each school about accreditation, total cost after financial aid, hands-on lab hours, certification exam prep, class sizes and job placement. Request info from two or three schools so you can compare their answers side by side.
Drafting schools in nearby cities
- Mission Viejo (15 mi)
- Anaheim (16 mi)
- Long Beach (17 mi)
- West Covina (27 mi)
- Riverside (35 mi)
- Pasadena (37 mi)
- Los Angeles (38 mi)
- Rancho Cucamonga (38 mi)
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