How to Become a Child, Family, and School Social Workers in California
Child, Family, and School Social Workers in California earn a median salary of $69,250/year, which is 18% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~3.8%. After taxes and rent, a child, family, and school social workers takes home approximately $3,127/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a child, family, and school social workers can afford in California
Becoming a child, family, and school social workers in California
Meet education requirements
Child, Family, and School Social Workers positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many child, family, and school social workers 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 child, family, and school social workerss. 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 55,220 child, family, and school social workers. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and Hanford-Corcoran.
Child, Family, and School Social Workers salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $79K | $37.84/hr | 2,090 |
| Hanford-Corcoran | $78K | $37.62/hr | 130 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $77K | $36.83/hr | 23,100 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $76K | $36.51/hr | 720 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $72K | $34.53/hr | 5,700 |
| Salinas | $71K | $34.03/hr | 370 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $71K | $33.99/hr | 670 |
| Vallejo | $68K | $32.65/hr | 290 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $67K | $32.03/hr | 3,310 |
| Modesto | $65K | $31.36/hr | 620 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $64K | $30.9/hr | 5,270 |
| Chico | $63K | $30.44/hr | 370 |
| Fresno | $63K | $30.42/hr | 1,850 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $62K | $30/hr | 360 |
| Yuba City | $62K | $29.75/hr | 210 |
Child, Family, and School Social Workers salary range in California
Child, Family, and School Social Workers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a child, family, and school social workers make in California?▼
The median child, family, and school social workers salary in California is $69,250 per year ($33.29/hr). This is 18% above the national median of $58,570. Salaries range from $46,980 to $102,460.
What are the requirements to become a child, family, and school social workers in California?▼
Child, Family, and School Social Workers positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a child, family, and school social workers afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $69,250, a child, family, and school social workers in California would take home approximately $4,539/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 31.1% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for child, family, and school social workers in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for child, family, and school social workers in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($78,700), Hanford-Corcoran ($78,250), Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim ($76,600). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for child, family, and school social workers?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.8%. On a $69,250 salary, this means roughly $2,638/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.