How to Become a Rehabilitation Counselors in California
Rehabilitation Counselors in California earn a median salary of $44,280/year, which is 4% below the national average. California has a state income tax of ~2.1%. After taxes and rent, a rehabilitation counselors takes home approximately $1,644/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a rehabilitation counselors can afford in California
Becoming a rehabilitation counselors in California
Meet education requirements
Rehabilitation Counselors 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 rehabilitation counselors 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 rehabilitation counselorss. 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 13,450 rehabilitation counselors. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and Santa Cruz-Watsonville.
Rehabilitation Counselors salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $57K | $27.29/hr | 500 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $50K | $24.23/hr | 170 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $49K | $23.67/hr | 1,640 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $47K | $22.39/hr | 280 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $46K | $21.93/hr | 200 |
| Napa | $45K | $21.76/hr | 120 |
| Salinas | $45K | $21.75/hr | 90 |
| Modesto | $45K | $21.45/hr | 80 |
| Vallejo | $44K | $21.1/hr | 240 |
| Redding | $44K | $21.05/hr | 90 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $43K | $20.83/hr | 1,050 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $43K | $20.71/hr | 850 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $43K | $20.68/hr | 4,750 |
| Yuba City | $43K | $20.63/hr | 30 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $43K | $20.47/hr | 130 |
Rehabilitation Counselors salary range in California
Rehabilitation Counselors careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a rehabilitation counselors make in California?▼
The median rehabilitation counselors salary in California is $44,280 per year ($21.29/hr). This is 4% below the national median of $46,110. Salaries range from $37,280 to $72,140.
What are the requirements to become a rehabilitation counselors in California?▼
Rehabilitation Counselors 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 rehabilitation counselors afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $44,280, a rehabilitation counselors in California would take home approximately $3,056/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 46.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for rehabilitation counselors in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for rehabilitation counselors in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($56,760), Santa Cruz-Watsonville ($50,400), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($49,230). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for rehabilitation counselors?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 2.1%. On a $44,280 salary, this means roughly $952/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.