Speech-Language Pathologist salary in California
A strong career option in California.
Median pay · May 2025
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
$118,970/ yr
$9,914 / mo · $57.20 / hr
Pay by experience
Entry
$79,747
Median
$118,970
Experienced
$160,909
Demand
Moderate
Program length
—
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 complete—
- Credential earned—
What you get back
- Starting salary$79,747
- Median salary$118,970
- Experienced salary$160,909
Many career changers recoup their certification cost within the first few months of working in their new role.
How to become a Speech-Language Pathologist in California
A clear path from where you are to where you want to be
Find a Speech-Language Pathologist program in California
Browse certified training programs. Most Speech-Language Pathologist tracks complete in a few weeks.
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 Speech-Language Pathologist 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 Speech-Language Pathologist in California is $118,970 per year, which is $57.20 per hour. Entry level positions typically start around $79,747 while experienced Speech-Language Pathologists can earn up to $160,909 annually.
Next step
Find Speech-Language Pathologist Classes Near You
Enter your ZIP code to see accredited Speech-Language Pathologist classes in your area.