How to Become a Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education in California
Preschool Teachers, Except Special Educations in California earn a median salary of $45,880/year, which is 24% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~2.3%. After taxes and rent, a preschool teachers, except special education takes home approximately $1,743/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a preschool teachers, except special education can afford in California
Becoming a preschool teachers, except special education in California
Meet education requirements
Preschool 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 preschool 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 preschool 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 49,260 preschool teachers, except special educations. The highest concentrations are in San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont and Modesto.
Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $49K | $23.65/hr | 9,100 |
| Modesto | $49K | $23.38/hr | 750 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $48K | $23.19/hr | 3,570 |
| Napa | $47K | $22.53/hr | 180 |
| Vallejo | $47K | $22.39/hr | 380 |
| Salinas | $47K | $22.38/hr | 420 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $46K | $22.11/hr | 590 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $45K | $21.81/hr | 4,320 |
| Merced | $45K | $21.79/hr | 200 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $45K | $21.75/hr | 370 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $45K | $21.73/hr | 580 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $45K | $21.45/hr | 15,620 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $44K | $21.3/hr | 310 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $44K | $21.02/hr | 3,450 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $44K | $21.01/hr | 930 |
Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education salary range in California
Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a preschool teachers, except special education make in California?▼
The median preschool teachers, except special education salary in California is $45,880 per year ($22.06/hr). This is 24% above the national median of $37,120. Salaries range from $36,860 to $60,890.
What are the requirements to become a preschool teachers, except special education in California?▼
Preschool 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 preschool teachers, except special education afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $45,880, a preschool teachers, except special education in California would take home approximately $3,155/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 44.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for preschool teachers, except special educations in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for preschool teachers, except special educations in California are San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($49,190), Modesto ($48,630), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($48,220). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for preschool teachers, except special educations?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 2.3%. On a $45,880 salary, this means roughly $1,043/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.