How to Become a Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity in California
Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercities in California earn a median salary of $62,430/year, which is 9% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~3.4%. After taxes and rent, a bus drivers, transit and intercity takes home approximately $2,764/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.
What a bus drivers, transit and intercity can afford in California
Becoming a bus drivers, transit and intercity in California
Meet education requirements
Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity positions in California typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many bus drivers, transit and intercity 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 bus drivers, transit and intercitys. 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 23,500 bus drivers, transit and intercities. The highest concentrations are in Santa Cruz-Watsonville and San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont.
Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $81K | $38.88/hr | 190 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $79K | $38.19/hr | 5,410 |
| Salinas | $70K | $33.44/hr | 170 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $65K | $31.3/hr | 9,800 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $60K | $28.67/hr | 1,810 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $57K | $27.34/hr | 150 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $55K | $26.6/hr | 1,380 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $55K | $26.38/hr | 870 |
| Fresno | $51K | $24.34/hr | — |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $49K | $23.32/hr | 180 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $47K | $22.48/hr | 340 |
Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity salary range in California
Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a bus drivers, transit and intercity make in California?▼
The median bus drivers, transit and intercity salary in California is $62,430 per year ($30.02/hr). This is 9% above the national median of $57,440. Salaries range from $47,570 to $89,180.
What are the requirements to become a bus drivers, transit and intercity in California?▼
Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity positions in California typically require No formal educational credential. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a bus drivers, transit and intercity afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $62,430, a bus drivers, transit and intercity in California would take home approximately $4,176/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 33.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for bus drivers, transit and intercities in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for bus drivers, transit and intercities in California are Santa Cruz-Watsonville ($80,870), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($79,440), Salinas ($69,560). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for bus drivers, transit and intercities?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.4%. On a $62,430 salary, this means roughly $2,093/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.