How to Become a Credit Counselors in California
Credit Counselors in California earn a median salary of $65,820/year, which is 30% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~3.6%. After taxes and rent, a credit counselors takes home approximately $2,949/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a credit counselors can afford in California
Becoming a credit counselors in California
Meet education requirements
Credit Counselors 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 credit counselors 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 credit counselorss. 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 2,160 credit counselors. The highest concentrations are in San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont and Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom.
Credit Counselors salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $77K | $36.96/hr | 270 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $76K | $36.62/hr | 100 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $75K | $36.19/hr | 150 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $66K | $31.87/hr | 190 |
| Fresno | $65K | $31.37/hr | 50 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $65K | $31.21/hr | 850 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $64K | $30.87/hr | 140 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $64K | $30.8/hr | 60 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $61K | $29.19/hr | 50 |
| Visalia | $46K | $22.1/hr | 30 |
Credit Counselors salary range in California
Credit Counselors careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a credit counselors make in California?▼
The median credit counselors salary in California is $65,820 per year ($31.64/hr). This is 30% above the national median of $50,480. Salaries range from $44,970 to $94,310.
What are the requirements to become a credit counselors in California?▼
Credit Counselors 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 credit counselors afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $65,820, a credit counselors in California would take home approximately $4,361/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 32.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for credit counselors in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for credit counselors in California are San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($76,880), Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom ($76,180), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($75,280). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for credit counselors?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.6%. On a $65,820 salary, this means roughly $2,364/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.