The highest paying jobs in Los Angeles are anesthesiologists, psychiatrists, surgeons, corporate lawyers, data scientists, machine learning engineers, IT managers, and chief executives. With salaries ranging from $100,076 to $455,239 annually and projected growth between 4% and 36% over the next 10 years, these roles are shaping Los Angeles’s dynamic economy. They power industries like healthcare, legal services, technology, and corporate leadership, making Los Angeles a prime destination for job seekers and professionals aiming for high-earning and impactful careers.
These jobs drive Los Angeles’s growth, fueled by the city’s booming healthcare sector, thriving tech startups, world-renowned entertainment companies, and expanding business landscape. For instance, Los Angeles County is home to over 200 hospitals, making it one of the largest healthcare markets in the nation. The city also boasts the third-largest tech ecosystem in the US, with an estimated 700,000 tech workers supporting industries from AI to cybersecurity. With cutting-edge research institutions and a culture of innovation, these careers are not only highly paid but are also essential to strengthening Los Angeles’s economy for businesses and future employers.
Anesthesiologists
Anesthesiologists are medical doctors specialized in administering anesthesia and managing pain before, during, and after surgical procedures. Their role is critical in ensuring patient safety during operations by monitoring vital signs and adjusting anesthetic levels accordingly. The demand for anesthesiologists is steadily increasing in Los Angeles, driven by the city’s robust healthcare sector, rising numbers of complex surgeries, and expansion of specialized medical centers. Moreover, advancements in pain management, the growth of outpatient surgical facilities, and the aging population requiring chronic care have further contributed to the blooming nature of this high-paying job in Los Angeles, California.
To become an anesthesiologist, candidates must complete a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathy (DO) degree, followed by a four-year anesthesiology residency. Postgraduate training includes mastering pharmacology, physiology, and advanced patient monitoring systems. Board certification from the American Board of Anesthesiology (ABA) is required to practice independently. Additional certifications in pain medicine or critical care can enhance employability and salary prospects. Strong decision-making, communication skills, and acute attention to detail are vital for success in this role.
As of April 2025, the average salary for anesthesiologists in Los Angeles is $443,500 per year. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for physicians and surgeons, including anesthesiologists, is projected to grow 4% between 2023 and 2033. Given the steady demand for surgical services and specialized pain care, anesthesiology remains one of the most stable and high-paying jobs in Los Angeles, CA. This career path offers not only financial rewards but also long-term job security in a region known for its world-class healthcare infrastructure.
Psychiatrists
Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing, treating, and preventing mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. The rising demand for psychiatric care in Los Angeles is largely driven by increasing awareness of mental health issues, greater societal acceptance of therapy, and broader insurance coverage for psychological services. Urban stressors, substance abuse, and post-pandemic mental health crises have intensified the need for comprehensive psychiatric care across diverse communities. As a result, psychiatry has become one of the fastest-growing, high-paying jobs in Los Angeles, California, with growing opportunities in private practice, hospitals, correctional facilities, and telehealth platforms.
To pursue a career as a psychiatrist, individuals must earn a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathy (DO) degree, complete a four-year psychiatry residency, and obtain board certification from the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN). Specialized training in child psychiatry, forensic psychiatry, or addiction psychiatry can offer additional career paths. Successful psychiatrists must possess excellent communication skills, strong diagnostic abilities, and a deep understanding of psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and patient care ethics.
Psychiatrists in Los Angeles earn an average salary of $321,436 annually, reflecting both the expertise required and the high demand for their services. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the field is expected to grow by 7% between 2023 and 2033, outpacing many other medical specialties. With expanding public health initiatives and integration of mental health into primary care systems, psychiatry stands as a resilient and high-paying job in Los Angeles, CA, offering meaningful work and financial stability in a healthcare landscape that increasingly prioritizes emotional well-being.
Surgeons
Surgeons are medical professionals trained to perform operations that treat injuries, diseases, and deformities. The demand for surgeons in Los Angeles is growing due to the city’s expanding healthcare facilities, increased access to specialized surgical procedures, and an aging population requiring more frequent operations. Los Angeles also houses some of the nation’s leading hospitals and academic centers, making it a hub for surgical innovation. This continuous demand across multiple specialties, such as cardiovascular, orthopedic, and cosmetic surgery, solidifies surgery as one of the most consistently high-paying jobs in Los Angeles, California.
Becoming a surgeon requires extensive education and clinical training. This includes completing a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO), followed by a 5–7 year surgical residency, and passing board certification exams. Surgeons often specialize further in areas such as neurosurgery or plastic surgery. Essential skills include precision, decision-making under pressure, and advanced knowledge of human anatomy and surgical techniques. Licensure in California and certification from bodies like the American Board of Surgery are mandatory for practice.
As of April 2025, the average salary for surgeons in Los Angeles is $455,239 annually. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 4% growth in employment for surgeons from 2023 to 2033. This sustained growth reflects ongoing advancements in medical technology, higher patient volumes, and the increasing availability of outpatient procedures. For medical professionals seeking a role with both societal impact and financial reward, surgery remains one of the top high-paying jobs in Los Angeles, CA, with long-term career stability.
Corporate Lawyers
Corporate lawyers are legal professionals who specialize in business law, handling matters such as mergers, acquisitions, contracts, compliance, and corporate governance. In Los Angeles, the growth of tech startups, entertainment companies, and international trade has created a constant demand for corporate legal expertise. These lawyers are essential for protecting business interests, navigating regulatory environments, and ensuring lawful operations. As a result, corporate law stands out as one of the most strategic and high-paying jobs in Los Angeles, California, particularly in sectors where legal complexity and financial stakes are high.
To become a corporate lawyer, individuals must earn a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school, pass the California Bar Examination, and maintain active licensure. Corporate law careers often begin with internships or clerkships in business-focused firms. Key competencies include contract drafting, negotiation, analytical thinking, and a solid grasp of federal and state business regulations. Advanced roles may require specialization in tax law, securities, or international trade, enhancing both expertise and earning potential.
Corporate lawyers in Los Angeles earn an average salary of $249,360 annually, reflecting both the depth of knowledge required and the high demand across industries. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the field is projected to grow by 5% between 2023 and 2033. With continued expansion in technology, media, and global commerce, corporate law remains a stable and lucrative legal path, offering long-term growth for professionals seeking a high-paying job in Los Angeles, CA, within the legal domain.
Data Scientists & Machine Learning Engineers
Data scientists and machine learning engineers are technology professionals who analyze large datasets and develop algorithms to make predictive models and automate decision-making. In Los Angeles, the rapid digitalization of industries such as healthcare, finance, e-commerce, and entertainment has significantly increased the demand for these roles. Companies rely on data experts to extract insights, enhance user experiences, and optimize operations using artificial intelligence. This sharp rise in demand places data science and machine learning among the fastest-growing and highest-paying jobs in Los Angeles, California, with strong relevance across both startups and established enterprises.
To enter this field, candidates typically hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer science, data science, mathematics, or related disciplines. Key skills include proficiency in Python, R, SQL, TensorFlow, and data visualization tools, along with knowledge of statistics and machine learning principles. Recognized certifications like Google Professional Data Engineer, AWS Machine Learning Specialty, or IBM Data Science Professional Certificate can boost credibility and employability. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and a strong foundation in model evaluation are essential for both roles.
As of 2025, machine learning engineers in Los Angeles earn an average of $121,287 per year, while data scientists earn around $100,076 annually. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects an exceptional 36% growth for data scientists and 26% growth for machine learning engineers between 2023 and 2033. With organizations increasingly relying on data-driven strategies, these roles are not only in high demand but also expected to remain some of the most future-proof and high-paying jobs in Los Angeles, CA, for the coming decade.
IT Managers
IT managers are responsible for planning, coordinating, and directing computer-related activities within an organization, ensuring that technology systems align with business goals. In Los Angeles, the surge in digital transformation across healthcare, entertainment, finance, and e-commerce sectors has elevated the role of IT managers. Businesses increasingly rely on these professionals to oversee infrastructure upgrades, implement cybersecurity protocols, and manage large-scale IT teams. This growing reliance on robust IT systems has made IT management one of the most relevant and high-paying jobs in Los Angeles, California.
To become an IT manager, candidates typically need a bachelor’s degree in information technology, computer science, or a related field, with many professionals holding a master’s degree in IT management or business administration (MBA). Essential certifications include PMP (Project Management Professional), CompTIA Project+, ITIL Foundation, and Certified Information Systems Manager (CISM). In addition to technical proficiency, IT managers must exhibit strong leadership, communication, and project management skills to effectively lead cross-functional teams and deliver scalable tech solutions.
The average annual salary for IT managers in Los Angeles is $108,376, reflecting the city’s strong demand for experienced technology leadership. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the role is expected to grow by 17% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the national average for all occupations. As businesses continue to integrate cloud computing, AI, and cybersecurity strategies, IT managers will remain essential and well-compensated, securing their place among high-paying jobs in Los Angeles, CA.
Chief Executives (CEOs)
Chief Executives (CEOs) are the highest-ranking individuals in an organization, responsible for setting strategic direction, overseeing company operations, and ensuring overall organizational success. In Los Angeles, the boom in sectors like technology, media, entertainment, and healthcare has intensified the need for visionary leadership. With startups scaling into enterprises and established companies navigating digital transformation, skilled CEOs are in demand to guide long-term growth. Their ability to drive innovation, manage complex teams, and make data-backed decisions positions this role as one of the most strategic and high-paying jobs in Los Angeles, California.
To become a CEO, individuals generally hold a bachelor’s degree in business administration, economics, or a related field, with many pursuing an MBA or executive leadership program. Decades of progressive experience in leadership, operations, or finance are typical prerequisites. Critical competencies include strategic planning, stakeholder communication, organizational leadership, and financial acumen. Though no formal certifications are required, credentials in executive management or corporate governance can add value, especially in competitive industries.
CEOs in Los Angeles earn an average salary of $218,189 per year, reflecting their high-level responsibilities and decision-making authority. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in this role is projected to grow by 6% between 2023 and 2033. As industries adapt to global market shifts and technological disruption, chief executives will continue to play a crucial role in shaping business success, securing their status among the most influential and high-paying jobs in Los Angeles, CA.
