Salaries in Redding, CA

You might be surprised to learn that Redding, a city of just 92,718 people, has a higher median household income—$71,114—than the national average. It’s a quiet powerhouse in Northern California, where the economy runs less on tech and more on healthcare, construction, and regional trade.

Let’s talk purchasing power. Redding’s cost of living sits at 102.8, just a hair above the U.S. average, but that’s deceptive. A one-bedroom apartment runs you $1,132 a month, which feels steep for a city this size until you factor in the salaries. The median income here stretches surprisingly far; your dollar doesn’t get crushed like it would in the Bay Area. It’s not a steal, but it’s not a rip-off either.

The city thrives on a specific blend of industries. Mercy Redding is a massive employer, as is Shasta Regional Medical Center, making healthcare a bedrock. The construction and project management sectors are hot, fueled by ongoing regional development. I’ll admit, I was a bit shocked to see marketing managers pulling in nearly $159,000—it shows there’s a serious demand for local business growth, not just national chains.

Here’s the honest catch: that 5.2% unemployment rate is a touch above the 2026 national average, and with only 24.7% of residents holding a bachelor’s degree, the path to those top-tier salaries isn’t automatic. Wages are keeping pace with costs, but you need to be in the right field. For skilled professionals in healthcare, tech, or management, Redding offers a financially sensible life that’s getting harder to find elsewhere.

The data below breaks down who’s earning what, and what your paycheck might actually be worth in this city.