How to Become a Psychiatric Technicians in California
Psychiatric Technicians in California earn a median salary of $61,620/year, which is 45% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~3.3%. After taxes and rent, a psychiatric technicians takes home approximately $2,715/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a psychiatric technicians can afford in California
Becoming a psychiatric technicians in California
Meet education requirements
Psychiatric Technicians 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 psychiatric technicians 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 psychiatric technicianss. 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 8,830 psychiatric technicians. The highest concentrations are in Stockton-Lodi and Santa Rosa-Petaluma.
Psychiatric Technicians salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stockton-Lodi | $92K | $44.19/hr | 370 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $82K | $39.63/hr | 60 |
| Vallejo | $82K | $39.5/hr | 210 |
| Visalia | $77K | $37.19/hr | 260 |
| Fresno | $75K | $36.26/hr | 440 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $71K | $34.29/hr | 880 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $71K | $34.18/hr | 50 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $70K | $33.83/hr | 750 |
| El Centro | $58K | $28.03/hr | 40 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $53K | $25.61/hr | 170 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $50K | $24.23/hr | 440 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $47K | $22.45/hr | 2,590 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $45K | $21.65/hr | 670 |
| Yuba City | $41K | $19.79/hr | 150 |
Psychiatric Technicians salary range in California
Psychiatric Technicians careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a psychiatric technicians make in California?▼
The median psychiatric technicians salary in California is $61,620 per year ($29.63/hr). This is 45% above the national median of $42,590. Salaries range from $41,160 to $91,910.
What are the requirements to become a psychiatric technicians in California?▼
Psychiatric Technicians 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 psychiatric technicians afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $61,620, a psychiatric technicians in California would take home approximately $4,127/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 34.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for psychiatric technicians in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for psychiatric technicians in California are Stockton-Lodi ($91,910), Santa Rosa-Petaluma ($82,440), Vallejo ($82,170). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for psychiatric technicians?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.3%. On a $61,620 salary, this means roughly $2,028/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.