How to Become a Correctional Officers and Jailers in California
Correctional Officers and Jailers in California earn a median salary of $95,840/year, which is 65% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~5.3%. After taxes and rent, a correctional officers and jailers takes home approximately $4,485/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a correctional officers and jailers can afford in California
Becoming a correctional officers and jailers in California
Meet education requirements
Correctional Officers and Jailers 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 correctional officers and jailers 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 correctional officers and jailerss. 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 37,760 correctional officers and jailers. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and Salinas.
Correctional Officers and Jailers salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $131K | $63.08/hr | 1,050 |
| Salinas | $106K | $51.2/hr | 1,490 |
| El Centro | $104K | $50.04/hr | 1,320 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $104K | $50.04/hr | 3,290 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $104K | $50.04/hr | 700 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $101K | $48.34/hr | 1,620 |
| Merced | $99K | $47.38/hr | 240 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $94K | $45.04/hr | 4,920 |
| Fresno | $92K | $44.24/hr | 2,640 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $87K | $41.79/hr | 1,970 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $82K | $39.38/hr | 120 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $80K | $38.32/hr | 5,920 |
| Visalia | $79K | $38.16/hr | 240 |
Correctional Officers and Jailers salary range in California
Correctional Officers and Jailers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a correctional officers and jailers make in California?▼
The median correctional officers and jailers salary in California is $95,840 per year ($46.08/hr). This is 65% above the national median of $57,970. Salaries range from $62,880 to $111,380.
What are the requirements to become a correctional officers and jailers in California?▼
Correctional Officers and Jailers 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 correctional officers and jailers afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $95,840, a correctional officers and jailers in California would take home approximately $5,897/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 23.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for correctional officers and jailers in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for correctional officers and jailers in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($131,210), Salinas ($106,490), El Centro ($104,090). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for correctional officers and jailers?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.3%. On a $95,840 salary, this means roughly $5,051/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.