How to Become a Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers in California
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers in California earn a median salary of $75,320/year, which is 25% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~4.2%. After taxes and rent, a mental health and substance abuse social workers takes home approximately $3,441/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a mental health and substance abuse social workers can afford in California
Becoming a mental health and substance abuse social workers in California
Meet education requirements
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers 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 mental health and substance abuse social workers 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 mental health and substance abuse social workerss. 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 18,020 mental health and substance abuse social workers. The highest concentrations are in San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles and San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara.
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $117K | $56.07/hr | 120 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $103K | $49.4/hr | 900 |
| Vallejo | $99K | $47.44/hr | 100 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $93K | $44.9/hr | 150 |
| Hanford-Corcoran | $90K | $43.03/hr | 70 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $84K | $40.24/hr | 1,490 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $79K | $37.82/hr | 1,630 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $78K | $37.42/hr | 160 |
| Salinas | $77K | $37.09/hr | 110 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $75K | $36/hr | 8,430 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $74K | $35.55/hr | 1,210 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $74K | $35.34/hr | 250 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $73K | $35.17/hr | 150 |
| Redding | $73K | $35.15/hr | 80 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $70K | $33.58/hr | 850 |
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers salary range in California
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a mental health and substance abuse social workers make in California?▼
The median mental health and substance abuse social workers salary in California is $75,320 per year ($36.21/hr). This is 25% above the national median of $60,060. Salaries range from $43,350 to $136,310.
What are the requirements to become a mental health and substance abuse social workers in California?▼
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers 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 mental health and substance abuse social workers afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $75,320, a mental health and substance abuse social workers in California would take home approximately $4,853/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 29.1% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for mental health and substance abuse social workers in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for mental health and substance abuse social workers in California are San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles ($116,630), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($102,760), Vallejo ($98,680). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for mental health and substance abuse social workers?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.2%. On a $75,320 salary, this means roughly $3,142/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.