What is the average teacher salary in California?

The average public-school teacher salary in California is approximately $92,000 per year (source: California Department of Education / NEA 2023–24). Pay varies by district, years of experience, and degree level — most districts publish a salary schedule.

Do California teachers get paid during the summer?

Most California districts pay teachers on a 12-month schedule even though instructional time is ~10 months — the annual salary is spread evenly across the year. Some districts offer a 10-month payment option; check your district's HR for specifics.

What's the highest-paying school district in California?

Pay scales vary district-to-district. Districts in higher cost-of-living areas typically offer higher base salaries. The "Top Hiring Districts" list on this page shows districts currently hiring across California.

Does experience or a master's degree increase teacher pay in California?

Yes. Almost every California district uses a step-and-lane salary schedule: "steps" reward years of teaching experience and "lanes" reward degree level (BA, BA+15, MA, MA+30, etc.). Earning a master's typically adds $3,000–$8,000 annually depending on the district.

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2026 Salary Guide

Teacher Salaries in California

Q: How does California teacher pay compare to the national average?

California teachers earn about 34% above the national average of $68,469 (National Education Association (NEA) Rankings and Estimates 2023–24). Cost of living in your specific city plays a big role in how that translates to take-home value.

California teachers earn an average of $92,000 per year — 34% above the national average.

$92,000State Average

$45,000Entry-Level (BS)

#1National Rank

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California Teacher Salary Overview

$45,000Entry-Level Salary (BS+0)Starting pay for new teachers with a bachelor's degree

$92,000Average Teacher SalaryState average across all experience levels and districts

$68,469National AverageNational Education Association (NEA) Rankings and Estimates 2023–24

▲ California teachers earn 34% more than the national average (+$23,531)

How California Teacher Salaries Work

California has the highest average teacher salary in the nation. Salary schedules vary by district and are negotiated through collective bargaining agreements. Los Angeles Unified, San Francisco Unified, and other large districts offer some of the highest starting salaries.

Key Factors That Affect Your Salary

Years of Experience (Steps): Salaries increase with each additional year of teaching service.
Education Level (Lanes): A master's degree, specialist degree, or doctorate earns a higher salary lane.
District: Each district sets its own salary schedule above the state minimum. Urban and suburban districts near major metro areas typically pay more.
Subject Area: Some districts offer bonuses or supplements for high-demand areas like special education, STEM, and bilingual education.

Additional context:

California's high cost of living in major metro areas means effective purchasing power varies considerably by region. The state invests heavily in public education through Proposition 98 funding.

Top Hiring Districts in California

These districts currently have the most open teaching positions on EduJobsBoard. Districts with more openings are often the most actively growing or have the most competitive pay.

College Elementary1562 open positions Sacramento City Unified446 open positions Clovis Unified341 open positions San Diego County Office Of Education324 open positions Center Joint Unified266 open positions Riverside County Office Of Education261 open positions Alameda County Office Of Education248 open positions Monterey County Office Of Education244 open positions San Mateo County Office Of Education236 open positions San Ramon Valley Unified233 open positions

30,480 total open positions across California school districts.

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California ranks #1 nationally by raw salary. How does it rank after adjusting for cost of living?

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Ready to Teach in California?

Before you start earning those salaries, you'll need a valid California teaching certificate. Learn about degree requirements, required exams, and the certification timeline.

California Certification Guide →

Ready to apply?

Browse current teaching positions in California — apply directly on district sites.

View California jobs → Browse by subject

Data sources: California Department of Education / NEA 2023–24. Salary figures represent approximate state averages and minimums; actual pay varies by district, experience, and education level. For the most current salary schedules, consult your district's human resources department or the California Department of Education.