How to Become a Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors in California
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors in California earn a median salary of $94,320/year, which is 45% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~5.2%. After taxes and rent, a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors takes home approximately $4,407/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors can afford in California
Becoming a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in California
Meet education requirements
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors 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 educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors 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 educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisorss. 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 44,160 educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors. The highest concentrations are in El Centro and Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura.
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| El Centro | $135K | $64.82/hr | 220 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $102K | $49.1/hr | 730 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $101K | $48.54/hr | 5,460 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $100K | $48.09/hr | 450 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $100K | $47.87/hr | 2,310 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $100K | $47.86/hr | 3,800 |
| Fresno | $99K | $47.69/hr | 1,360 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $99K | $47.5/hr | 2,670 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $98K | $47.25/hr | 430 |
| Salinas | $98K | $47.01/hr | 500 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $96K | $46.28/hr | 780 |
| Hanford-Corcoran | $96K | $46.04/hr | 120 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $95K | $45.69/hr | 640 |
| Yuba City | $95K | $45.55/hr | 180 |
| Chico | $94K | $45.14/hr | 300 |
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors salary range in California
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors make in California?▼
The median educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors salary in California is $94,320 per year ($45.35/hr). This is 45% above the national median of $65,140. Salaries range from $50,850 to $149,290.
What are the requirements to become a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in California?▼
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors 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 educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $94,320, a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in California would take home approximately $5,819/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 24.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in California are El Centro ($134,820), Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura ($102,130), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($100,960). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.2%. On a $94,320 salary, this means roughly $4,909/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.