How to Become a Animal Caretakers in California
Animal Caretakers in California earn a median salary of $37,200/year, which is 11% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~1.8%. After taxes and rent, a animal caretakers takes home approximately $1,193/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a animal caretakers can afford in California
Becoming a animal caretakers in California
Meet education requirements
Animal Caretakers positions in California typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many animal caretakers positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for animal caretakerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 26,200 animal caretakers. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont.
Animal Caretakers salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $44K | $20.99/hr | 1,180 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $43K | $20.48/hr | 3,520 |
| Napa | $39K | $18.64/hr | 110 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $38K | $18.37/hr | 630 |
| Salinas | $38K | $18.23/hr | 280 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $38K | $18.1/hr | 210 |
| Vallejo | $37K | $17.99/hr | 250 |
| Yuba City | $37K | $17.91/hr | 70 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $37K | $17.86/hr | 290 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $37K | $17.76/hr | 360 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $37K | $17.72/hr | 1,540 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $37K | $17.66/hr | 8,880 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $36K | $17.53/hr | 3,060 |
| Modesto | $36K | $17.5/hr | 290 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $36K | $17.35/hr | 2,220 |
Animal Caretakers salary range in California
Animal Caretakers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a animal caretakers make in California?▼
The median animal caretakers salary in California is $37,200 per year ($17.88/hr). This is 11% above the national median of $33,470. Salaries range from $34,420 to $48,150.
What are the requirements to become a animal caretakers in California?▼
Animal Caretakers positions in California typically require High school diploma or equivalent. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a animal caretakers afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $37,200, a animal caretakers in California would take home approximately $2,605/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 54.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for animal caretakers in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for animal caretakers in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($43,670), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($42,590), Napa ($38,770). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for animal caretakers?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 1.8%. On a $37,200 salary, this means roughly $669/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.