Elementary School Teacher Salary in California
Based on 155K+ workers in California
Median Annual Salary (CA)
$99,650
$47.909/hr
vs National Average
$68,176
+46.2% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$62K – $127K
155K employed in California
Elementary school teachers in California earn a median salary of $99,650 per year, significantly outpacing earnings in most other states. With approximately 155,160 educators in the profession throughout California, the state's compensation reflects both the high cost of living and its substantial investment in public education. This median sits 46% above the national average for elementary teachers.
Elementary school teacher salary in California varies considerably based on experience, location, and district funding levels. Teachers in high-cost urban areas and well-funded districts typically earn toward the upper end of the $61,940 to $127,070 range, while those in rural or under-resourced areas may fall closer to the lower threshold. Years of service, advanced degrees, and specialized certifications also play important roles in determining individual compensation within the state's education system.
Salary Distribution — Elementary School Teacher in California
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $61,940 |
| 25th percentile | $77,140 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $99,650 |
| 75th percentile | $119,970 |
| 90th percentile | $127,070 |
Historical Salary Trend — Elementary School Teacher in California vs National
| Year | Median Salary (United States) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $92,860 |
| 2023 | $96,700 |
| 2024 | $98,190 |
| 2025 | $99,650 |
| Year | California Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | $92,860 | $61,148 |
| 2023 | $96,700 | $64,171 |
| 2024 | $98,190 | $64,107 |
| 2025 | $99,650 | $68,176 |
Elementary School Teacher Salary by Experience Level in California
Elementary School Teacher Salary in Other States
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do elementary school teachers make in California?
- Elementary school teachers in California earn a median salary of $99,650 per year, or $48 per hour. This is significantly higher than the national average, representing a 46.2% premium for teaching in California.
What is the salary range for elementary teachers in California?
- Elementary school teacher salaries in California range from $61,940 at the lower end to $127,070 at the upper end, providing substantial variation based on experience, location, and district funding.
Is teaching elementary school in California better paid than the national average?
- Yes, elementary school teachers in California earn 46.2% more than the national average, with a median salary of $99,650 compared to lower national figures. This makes California one of the highest-paying states for this position.
How many elementary school teachers are employed in California?
- There are currently 155,160 elementary school teachers employed in California, representing a substantial workforce in the state's education system.