California Hourly to Salary Converter

Convert between hourly wages and annual salaries using California work standards. Calculate equivalent compensation with vacation time, holidays, and standard work schedules.

Wage Conversion Calculator

Convert between hourly and salary compensation with customizable work schedules

California Work Standards (2025)

Standard Work Hours

Full-Time Employment

Standard full-time work schedule in California

Hours per Week: 40 hours
Hours per Day: 8 hours
Work Days: 5 days per week
Annual Work Hours

Total working hours in a standard year

Total Hours: 2,080 hours/year
Work Weeks: 52 weeks
Calculation: 40 hrs × 52 weeks

Time Off Standards

Vacation Time

Typical vacation allowances for full-time employees

Entry Level: 10-15 days/year
Experienced: 15-20 days/year
Senior Level: 20-25 days/year
Holidays & Sick Leave

Standard time off benefits

Federal Holidays: 10-12 days/year
CA Sick Leave: Minimum 3 days/year
Personal Days: 2-5 days/year

Wage Standards

California Minimum Wage (2025)

Current minimum wage requirements

Hourly Rate: $16.50/hour
Annual Equivalent: $34,320/year
Effective Date: January 1, 2025
Exempt Employee Minimum

Minimum salary for exempt employees

Annual Salary: $70,720/year
Hourly Equivalent: $34.00/hour
Monthly: $5,893.33/month

Employment Types

Part-Time Employment

Typical part-time work arrangements

Hours per Week: 20-35 hours
Annual Hours: 1,040-1,820 hours
Benefits: Prorated or limited
Contract/Freelance

Independent contractor considerations

Billable Hours: Variable schedule
Rate Premium: 25-40% higher
Benefits: Self-provided

Salary vs Hourly Comparisons

Entry Level Position

Industry: Administrative/Customer Service

Experience: 0-2 years

Hourly Rate: $18.00/hour
Annual Salary: $37,440/year
Monthly: $3,120/month

Mid-Level Position

Industry: Technology/Healthcare

Experience: 3-7 years

Hourly Rate: $35.00/hour
Annual Salary: $72,800/year
Monthly: $6,066.67/month

Senior Level Position

Industry: Engineering/Finance

Experience: 8+ years

Hourly Rate: $65.00/hour
Annual Salary: $135,200/year
Monthly: $11,266.67/month

Executive Level Position

Industry: Management/Executive

Experience: 15+ years

Hourly Rate: $95.00/hour
Annual Salary: $197,600/year
Monthly: $16,466.67/month

Conversion Considerations

Standard Calculation

The basic conversion uses 2,080 hours per year (40 hours × 52 weeks). This assumes full-time employment with no unpaid time off.

  • Hourly to Annual: Rate × 2,080 hours
  • Annual to Hourly: Salary ÷ 2,080 hours
  • Accounts for standard work year
Vacation & Holidays

Consider unpaid time off when comparing hourly and salary positions. Salaried employees typically receive paid vacation and holidays.

  • Vacation time: 10-25 days annually
  • Holidays: 10-12 days annually
  • Sick leave: 3+ days minimum in CA
Overtime Considerations

Hourly employees earn overtime pay, while exempt salaried employees typically do not. This can significantly impact total compensation.

  • Hourly: 1.5x rate after 8 hours/day or 40 hours/week
  • Salary: Fixed pay regardless of hours worked
  • Non-exempt salary: Eligible for overtime
Benefits Package

Compare total compensation including benefits when evaluating hourly vs salary positions.

  • Health insurance premiums
  • Retirement plan contributions
  • Professional development opportunities

Frequently Asked Questions About Hourly to Salary Conversion

Multiply your hourly rate by 2,080 hours (40 hours/week × 52 weeks/year). For example, $25/hour × 2,080 = $52,000 annual salary. This assumes full-time employment with no unpaid time off.

Yes, salaried employees typically receive paid vacation and holidays, while hourly employees may not. Factor in 2-4 weeks of paid time off when comparing total compensation between hourly and salary positions.

Hourly employees can earn significantly more with overtime pay (1.5x rate), especially in California with daily overtime rules. Salaried exempt employees don't receive overtime pay regardless of hours worked.

It depends on your situation. Hourly offers overtime pay and schedule flexibility, while salary provides income stability and typically better benefits. Consider total compensation, work-life balance, and career goals.

Important Conversion Disclaimer

This calculator provides estimates based on standard work schedules and California employment practices. Actual compensation may vary based on specific employment agreements, industry standards, overtime eligibility, benefits packages, and individual circumstances. Always consider the complete compensation package including benefits, time off, and growth opportunities when comparing positions. Consult with HR professionals or employment attorneys for specific questions about compensation structures.