Coroners in California
Coroners investigate deaths that are sudden, violent, unexplained, or suspicious within their legal jurisdiction. They perform or oversee autopsies, analyze toxicology and pathology findings, and conduct inquests to determine cause of death and assign responsibility In California the median pay is $96,980 a year, 20% above the national median of $80,730.
$96,980median pay in California, per year
$71,240–$127,380middle half earn
49,880employed in California
$80,730U.S. median, for comparison
Are you suited for this?
Four short assessments and your background, scored against coroners and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against coroners and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience). Most hold a bachelor’s degree.
Skills that matter most
SpeakingCritical ThinkingReading ComprehensionActive ListeningCoordinationWritingSocial PerceptivenessJudgment and Decision Making
Knowledge areas
English LanguageMedicine and DentistryCustomer and Personal ServiceLaw and GovernmentAdministration and ManagementBiology
Full profile, interests that fit, certifications and training: Coroners.
Licenses and training in California
Coroners pay in other states
District of Columbia · $111,030Massachusetts · $102,060New Jersey · $100,000Connecticut · $91,810Delaware · $91,050Vermont · $90,420New York · $90,080Washington · $88,790Rhode Island · $87,620Minnesota · $85,920
Related occupations
Compliance OfficersEnvironmental Compliance InspectorsEqual Opportunity Representatives and OfficersGovernment Property Inspectors and InvestigatorsRegulatory Affairs SpecialistsCustoms BrokersAgents and Business Managers of Artists, Performers, and AthletesBuyers and Purchasing Agents, Farm Products
Are you suited for this?
Four short assessments and your background, scored against coroners and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against coroners and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 13-1041.06. Pay: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025, California, annual.