Social Worker salary in California
A strong career option in California — with programs that take 2 to 6 years to complete.
Median pay · May 2025
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
$63,010/ yr
$5,251 / mo · $30.29 / hr
Pay by experience
Entry
$36,150
Median
$63,010
Experienced
$132,475
Demand
Moderate
Program length
2 to 6 years
Job demand & outlook
Steady demand across the United States
Source: BLS Employment Projections
Where this career can take you
A clear progression path, with real salary growth at each step
- State Certificate$50,559
- Professional Certification / Diploma$53,771
- Professional Certification / Bootcamp$88,192
- Associate Degree$80,408
Is this career change worth it?
A simple look at what it costs vs what you gain
What it typically costs
- Average training cost—
- Time to complete2 to 6 years
- Credential earned—
What you get back
- Starting salary$36,150
- Median salary$63,010
- Experienced salary$132,475
Many career changers recoup their certification cost within the first few months of working in their new role.
How to become a Social Worker in California
A clear path from where you are to where you want to be
Find a Social Worker program in California
Browse certified training programs. Most Social Worker tracks complete in 2 to 6 years.
Earn your certification
Complete coursework, finish required clinical or lab hours, and pass the exam required for a certification in California.
Get hired in California
With roughly thousands of Social Worker openings each year nationwide, graduates often find employment within 30–90 days in California.
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Frequently asked questions
The median salary for a Social Worker in California is $63,010 per year, which is $30.29 per hour. Entry level positions typically start around $36,150 while experienced Social Workers can earn up to $132,475 annually.
Next step
Find Social Worker Classes Near You
Enter your ZIP code to see accredited Social Worker classes in your area.