How to Become a Marriage and Family Therapists in California
Marriage and Family Therapists in California earn a median salary of $63,780/year, which is 0% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~3.5%. After taxes and rent, a marriage and family therapists takes home approximately $2,843/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a marriage and family therapists can afford in California
Becoming a marriage and family therapists in California
Meet education requirements
Marriage and Family Therapists 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 marriage and family therapists 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 marriage and family therapistss. 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 32,070 marriage and family therapists. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and Santa Rosa-Petaluma.
Marriage and Family Therapists salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $89K | $42.76/hr | 1,220 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $80K | $38.69/hr | 360 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $79K | $37.84/hr | 90 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $77K | $37.01/hr | 3,400 |
| El Centro | $74K | $35.58/hr | 60 |
| Merced | $73K | $35.31/hr | 70 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $73K | $35.3/hr | 350 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $73K | $35.01/hr | 1,270 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $72K | $34.69/hr | 240 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $71K | $34.34/hr | 170 |
| Redding | $70K | $33.83/hr | 160 |
| Chico | $70K | $33.65/hr | 150 |
| Modesto | $67K | $32.16/hr | 240 |
| Yuba City | $67K | $32.07/hr | 40 |
| Napa | $66K | $31.96/hr | 130 |
Marriage and Family Therapists salary range in California
Marriage and Family Therapists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a marriage and family therapists make in California?▼
The median marriage and family therapists salary in California is $63,780 per year ($30.66/hr). This is 0% above the national median of $63,780. Salaries range from $44,430 to $121,700.
What are the requirements to become a marriage and family therapists in California?▼
Marriage and Family Therapists 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 marriage and family therapists afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $63,780, a marriage and family therapists in California would take home approximately $4,255/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 33.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for marriage and family therapists in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for marriage and family therapists in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($88,950), Santa Rosa-Petaluma ($80,470), Santa Cruz-Watsonville ($78,700). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for marriage and family therapists?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.5%. On a $63,780 salary, this means roughly $2,201/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.