School Psychologists in California
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | California | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $118,310 | $86,930 | +36.1% vs US |
| State Rank | #1 of 51 states | Top 10 state | |
| Employment | 9,350 jobs | 63,830 jobs | 14.6% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in California
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $81,170 | $39.02 |
| 25th Percentile | $101,930 | $49.01 |
| Median | $118,310 | $56.88 |
| 75th Percentile | $133,280 | $64.08 |
| 90th Percentile | $154,100 | $74.09 |
Related Links
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for School Psychologists in California in 2026?
With a median salary of $118,310 in California and a 2021–2024 salary trend of +17.3%, school psychologists are still in strong and growing demand.
How can school psychologists increase their salary in California?
School Psychologists in California can increase earnings by targeting higher-paying industries which tend to offer compensation well above the state median. Additionally, relocating to a higher-paying state could offer a significant income boost: California currently ranks #1 out of 51 states for this occupation. Pursuing advanced credentials, specializations, or roles with greater responsibility are proven ways to move toward the 75th or 90th percentile of earners.
Which industries pay the most for School Psychologists in California?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Other Schools and Instruction | $153,900 |
| Other Schools and Instruction | $153,900 |
| Offices of Physicians | $140,180 |
How are School Psychologists paid in California compared to the national average?
The median salary for School Psychologists in California is $118,310, which is 36.1% above the national median of $86,930.