How to Become a School Psychologists in California
School Psychologists in California earn a median salary of $118,310/year, which is 36% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~6.0%. After taxes and rent, a school psychologists takes home approximately $5,628/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a school psychologists can afford in California
Becoming a school psychologists in California
Meet education requirements
School Psychologists 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 school psychologists 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 school psychologistss. 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 9,350 school psychologists. The highest concentrations are in El Centro and San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara.
School Psychologists salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| El Centro | $140K | $67.48/hr | 70 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $128K | $61.51/hr | 280 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $128K | $61.41/hr | 940 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $127K | $61.07/hr | 130 |
| Salinas | $127K | $60.93/hr | 110 |
| Visalia | $126K | $60.42/hr | 150 |
| Merced | $126K | $60.42/hr | 80 |
| Fresno | $125K | $60.31/hr | 470 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $124K | $59.71/hr | 790 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $124K | $59.6/hr | 510 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $123K | $59.33/hr | 180 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $123K | $59.12/hr | 220 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $122K | $58.43/hr | 40 |
| Yuba City | $120K | $57.73/hr | 40 |
| Modesto | $117K | $56.03/hr | 80 |
School Psychologists salary range in California
School Psychologists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a school psychologists make in California?▼
The median school psychologists salary in California is $118,310 per year ($56.88/hr). This is 36% above the national median of $86,930. Salaries range from $81,170 to $154,100.
What are the requirements to become a school psychologists in California?▼
School Psychologists 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 school psychologists afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $118,310, a school psychologists in California would take home approximately $7,040/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 20.1% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for school psychologists in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for school psychologists in California are El Centro ($140,350), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($127,940), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($127,730). 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 psychologists?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 6.0%. On a $118,310 salary, this means roughly $7,140/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.