How to Become a Kindergarten Teachers, Except Special Education in California
Kindergarten Teachers, Except Special Educations in California earn a median salary of $84,550/year, which is 38% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~4.7%. After taxes and rent, a kindergarten teachers, except special education takes home approximately $3,910/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a kindergarten teachers, except special education can afford in California
Becoming a kindergarten teachers, except special education in California
Meet education requirements
Kindergarten Teachers, Except Special Education 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 kindergarten teachers, except special education 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 kindergarten teachers, except special educations. 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 6,520 kindergarten teachers, except special educations. The highest concentrations are in Modesto and Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura.
Kindergarten Teachers, Except Special Education salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Modesto | $116K | $/hr | 210 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $109K | $/hr | 170 |
| Merced | $106K | $/hr | 130 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $105K | $/hr | 250 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $103K | $/hr | 1,170 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $102K | $/hr | — |
| Salinas | $101K | $/hr | 130 |
| El Centro | $100K | $/hr | 50 |
| Hanford-Corcoran | $93K | $/hr | 60 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $87K | $/hr | 410 |
| Vallejo | $83K | $/hr | 90 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $82K | $/hr | 190 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $82K | $/hr | 430 |
| Napa | $81K | $/hr | 30 |
| Visalia | $80K | $/hr | 290 |
Kindergarten Teachers, Except Special Education salary range in California
Kindergarten Teachers, Except Special Education careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a kindergarten teachers, except special education make in California?▼
The median kindergarten teachers, except special education salary in California is $84,550 per year ($null/hr). This is 38% above the national median of $61,430. Salaries range from $51,130 to $123,380.
What are the requirements to become a kindergarten teachers, except special education in California?▼
Kindergarten Teachers, Except Special Education 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 kindergarten teachers, except special education afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $84,550, a kindergarten teachers, except special education in California would take home approximately $5,322/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 26.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for kindergarten teachers, except special educations in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for kindergarten teachers, except special educations in California are Modesto ($115,930), Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura ($108,640), Merced ($106,030). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for kindergarten teachers, except special educations?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.7%. On a $84,550 salary, this means roughly $4,001/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.