How to Become a Community Health Workers in California
Community Health Workers in California earn a median salary of $57,560/year, which is 13% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~3.0%. After taxes and rent, a community health workers takes home approximately $2,467/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a community health workers can afford in California
Becoming a community health workers in California
Meet education requirements
Community Health Workers 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 community health 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 community health 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 9,200 community health workers. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont.
Community Health Workers salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $73K | $35.25/hr | 420 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $72K | $34.63/hr | 1,770 |
| Vallejo | $66K | $31.54/hr | 60 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $60K | $28.9/hr | 70 |
| Visalia | $60K | $28.84/hr | 90 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $56K | $27.08/hr | 150 |
| Salinas | $56K | $26.95/hr | 80 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $55K | $26.38/hr | 90 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $55K | $26.35/hr | 490 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $52K | $24.81/hr | 620 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $52K | $24.8/hr | 100 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $51K | $24.72/hr | 90 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $51K | $24.71/hr | 3,380 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $51K | $24.51/hr | 90 |
| Fresno | $51K | $24.4/hr | 220 |
Community Health Workers salary range in California
Community Health Workers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a community health workers make in California?▼
The median community health workers salary in California is $57,560 per year ($27.67/hr). This is 13% above the national median of $51,030. Salaries range from $45,200 to $89,920.
What are the requirements to become a community health workers in California?▼
Community Health Workers 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 community health workers afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $57,560, a community health workers in California would take home approximately $3,879/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 36.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for community health workers in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for community health workers in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($73,310), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($72,030), Vallejo ($65,610). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for community health workers?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.0%. On a $57,560 salary, this means roughly $1,744/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.