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Public Safety · California

How to Become a School Bus Monitors in California

School Bus Monitors in California earn a median salary of $39,190/year, which is 12% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~1.9%. After taxes and rent, a school bus monitors takes home approximately $1,320/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.

$39K
Median salary in California
+12%
vs. national average
1.9%
State income tax
1,480
Employed in California

What a school bus monitors can afford in California

Gross annual salary$39,190
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 1.9% state tax)$2,732/mo
Median 2BR rent (California)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home51.7% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$39,190/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,320/mo

Becoming a school bus monitors in California

1

Meet education requirements

School Bus Monitors positions in California typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many school bus monitors 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.

3

Obtain California licensure or certification

California may require specific licensing or professional certification for school bus monitorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in California

California employs 1,480 school bus monitors. The highest concentrations are in San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont and Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom.

School Bus Monitors salary by metro area in California

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont$45K$21.82/hr90
Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom$43K$20.8/hr50
Bakersfield-Delano$42K$20.34/hr120
Stockton-Lodi$41K$19.76/hr50
San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad$39K$18.93/hr260
Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim$38K$18.27/hr290
Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario$37K$17.64/hr300

School Bus Monitors salary range in California

10th percentile (entry)
$35K
25th percentile
$37K
Median (50th)
$39K
75th percentile
$43K
90th percentile (senior)
$48K
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School Bus Monitors careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a school bus monitors make in California?

The median school bus monitors salary in California is $39,190 per year ($18.84/hr). This is 12% above the national median of $34,980. Salaries range from $35,230 to $47,770.

What are the requirements to become a school bus monitors in California?

School Bus Monitors positions in California typically require High school diploma or equivalent. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a school bus monitors afford to live in California?

At the median salary of $39,190, a school bus monitors in California would take home approximately $2,732/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 51.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for school bus monitors in California?

The highest paying metro areas for school bus monitors in California are San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($45,390), Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom ($43,260), Bakersfield-Delano ($42,310). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does California have state income tax for school bus monitors?

Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 1.9%. On a $39,190 salary, this means roughly $748/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.