How to Become a Clergy in California
Clergies in California earn a median salary of $77,710/year, which is 28% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~4.3%. After taxes and rent, a clergy takes home approximately $3,832/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a clergy can afford in California
Becoming a clergy in California
Meet education requirements
Clergy positions in California typically require Master's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many clergy 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 clergys. 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 7,110 clergies. The highest concentrations are in Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim and Santa Maria-Santa Barbara.
Clergy salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $84K | $40.41/hr | , |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $81K | $39.08/hr | 70 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $81K | $38.83/hr | 70 |
| Vallejo | $80K | $38.26/hr | 60 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $78K | $37.66/hr | 450 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $78K | $37.26/hr | 330 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $77K | $37.24/hr | 560 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $77K | $37.05/hr | 110 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $77K | $36.88/hr | 310 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $75K | $36.07/hr | 80 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $75K | $35.86/hr | 1,130 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $74K | $35.46/hr | 90 |
| Salinas | $74K | $35.46/hr | 60 |
| Fresno | $71K | $34.2/hr | 280 |
| Modesto | $65K | $31.42/hr | 90 |
Clergy salary range in California
Clergy careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a clergy make in California?▼
The median clergy salary in California is $77,710 per year ($37.36/hr). This is 28% above the national median of $60,810. Salaries range from $42,690 to $157,030.
What are the requirements to become a clergy in California?▼
Clergy positions in California typically require Master'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 clergy afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $77,710, a clergy in California would take home approximately $4,974/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,142/month, that's 23% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for clergies in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for clergies in California are Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim ($84,050), Santa Maria-Santa Barbara ($81,280), Santa Rosa-Petaluma ($80,760). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for clergies?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.3%. On a $77,710 salary, this means roughly $3,365/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.