How to Become a Speech-Language Pathologists in California
Speech-Language Pathologists in California earn a median salary of $116,000/year, which is 22% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~6.0%. After taxes and rent, a speech-language pathologists takes home approximately $5,510/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a speech-language pathologists can afford in California
Becoming a speech-language pathologists in California
Meet education requirements
Speech-Language Pathologists 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 speech-language pathologists 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 speech-language pathologistss. 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 14,680 speech-language pathologists. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont.
Speech-Language Pathologists salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $136K | $65.32/hr | 630 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $130K | $62.63/hr | 1,930 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $129K | $61.87/hr | 160 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $124K | $59.71/hr | 410 |
| Salinas | $124K | $59.64/hr | 150 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $124K | $59.41/hr | 130 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $122K | $58.89/hr | 750 |
| El Centro | $122K | $58.7/hr | 40 |
| Merced | $119K | $57.42/hr | 80 |
| Yuba City | $119K | $57.16/hr | 50 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $117K | $56.05/hr | 330 |
| Chico | $116K | $55.71/hr | 100 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $115K | $55.48/hr | 1,800 |
| Vallejo | $113K | $54.1/hr | 140 |
| Modesto | $112K | $54/hr | 140 |
Speech-Language Pathologists salary range in California
Speech-Language Pathologists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a speech-language pathologists make in California?▼
The median speech-language pathologists salary in California is $116,000 per year ($55.77/hr). This is 22% above the national median of $95,410. Salaries range from $67,150 to $153,930.
What are the requirements to become a speech-language pathologists in California?▼
Speech-Language Pathologists 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 speech-language pathologists afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $116,000, a speech-language pathologists in California would take home approximately $6,922/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 20.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for speech-language pathologists in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for speech-language pathologists in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($135,860), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($130,270), Santa Maria-Santa Barbara ($128,700). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for speech-language pathologists?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 6.0%. On a $116,000 salary, this means roughly $6,926/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.