A record number of women in the U.S. are now earning high incomes, but the gender pay gap remains stubbornly wide—especially in California.
According to new data from LendingTree's deposit accounts, the number of American women earning $200,000 or more surged by 38.7% over the past decade. But while that figure signals real progress, a closer look reveals persistent inequality: women make up 55.3% of California’s lowest earners, while men still hold 64.9% of six-figure roles in the state.
Tim O’Brien, filling in for Fred Roggin, welcomed LendingTree’s Chief Consumer Financial Analyst Matt Schulz to discuss the findings.
“California actually leads the nation when it comes to women earning six figures,” said Schulz. “In fact, the number is roughly double that of any other state. But income disparities remain, due in part to women often being in lower-paying industries and taking on greater caregiving responsibilities.”
Schulz also pointed to ongoing gender biases and societal expectations as barriers to true equity, though he remained optimistic. “The growth we’re seeing is meaningful and shows signs of continuing,” he added.
Panelists Tammy Black, a business owner, and Jill Marie Plaza, a taxi administrator, joined the discussion to offer personal insight.
“I’ve absolutely experienced the gender pay gap, which is why I now work for myself,” said Black. “We do the same work—sometimes more—and we’re still not paid equally. It’s frustrating and slow-moving.”
Plaza agreed and noted that family responsibilities often fall disproportionately on women. “We’re the ones called when a child is sick. Even if dad is listed first, they still call mom. That affects how dependable employers perceive us to be—and that impacts pay.”
Both women emphasized the need for systemic change and cultural awareness in order to level the playing field—not just through policy, but also through shifting attitudes.
The numbers may be trending upward, but the conversation around gender and income in California proves there's still much ground to cover.
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By: Fred Roggin
May 8, 2025
