Surgical tech schools in California
Looking for surgical technologist schools in California? There are 26, including 3 public colleges, 1 private nonprofit school, and 22 private career schools. Surgical technologists in California earn a median $81,310 a year, according to the BLS.
- Schools
- 26
- Public colleges
- 3
- Median pay in CA
- $81,310
- Cities with schools
- 20
Surgical tech schools by city
- Los Angeles (9 within 30 mi)
- San Diego (4 within 30 mi)
- Long Beach (8 within 30 mi)
- Oakland (3 within 30 mi)
- Anaheim (8 within 30 mi)
- Riverside (4 within 30 mi)
- Santa Clarita (4 within 30 mi)
- San Bernardino (4 within 30 mi)
- Rancho Cucamonga (6 within 30 mi)
- Escondido (3 within 30 mi)
- Pasadena (9 within 30 mi)
- Simi Valley (4 within 30 mi)
- Menifee (4 within 30 mi)
- Costa Mesa (7 within 30 mi)
- Mission Viejo (5 within 30 mi)
- Pleasanton (3 within 30 mi)
- Yucaipa (3 within 30 mi)
- Glendora (11 within 30 mi)
- Hercules (3 within 30 mi)
- Imperial Beach (4 within 30 mi)
What surgical technologists earn in California
Median pay means half earn more and half earn less. Pay grows with experience, certifications and overtime.
Surgical technologist salary in CaliforniaHow to become a surgical technologist
- Median pay
- $81,310
- $39.09 an hour
- Typical range
- $49,140–$115,740
- 10th to 90th percentile
- Jobs in CA
- 11,920
- Job growth, 2025–35
- +5%
- 7,100 openings a year (U.S.)
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025, and Employment Projections.
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Frequently asked questions
How many surgical technologist schools are in California?
We list 26 schools in California with surgical technologist programs: 3 public colleges, 1 private nonprofit school, and 22 private career schools. Campuses are in Anaheim, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Diego, and Bakersfield.
Are there community college surgical technologist programs in California?
Yes. 3 public colleges in California offer surgical technologist. Public programs often cost less and are usually eligible for federal financial aid. Confirm costs and aid with each school.
How much does surgical technologist school cost in California?
Among the 24 schools here that report it to the U.S. Department of Education, the average yearly net price (after grants and scholarships) ranges from $1,738 to $51,867. That figure covers the whole school, not just this program, so ask each school for the program's total cost.
How much do surgical technologists make in California?
The median pay for surgical technologists in California is $81,310 a year, and most earn between $49,140 and $115,740, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
How do I choose a surgical technologist school in California?
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.
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