Childcare Workers Salary in California
Childcare Workers in California earn a median of $40,020 a year, +14% compared with the U.S. median.
Updated October 2026 · Data: BLS OEWS May 2025 · How we match careers
- Median pay
- $40,020
- vs. U.S. median
- +14% ($34,980)
- Rank among states
- 5 of 51
- Jobs in the state
- 52,780
Pay range in California
The lowest-paid 10% earn under $35,340; the top 10% earn over $52,670. Nationally the range is $24,260 to $46,010.
States ranked near California
Similar jobs in California
- Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education$47,400 median in California
- Special Education Teachers, Preschool$59,550 median in California
- Kindergarten Teachers, Except Special Education$82,550 median in California
- Career/Technical Education Teachers, Secondary School$80,620 median in California
- Residential Advisors$46,650 median in California
- Nannies$40,020 median in California (broader BLS group)
Childcare Workers pay in California
How much do childcare workers make in California?
The median is $40,020 a year. The lowest-paid 10% earn under $35,340 and the top 10% earn over $52,670. BLS OEWS May 2025.
Is California a good state for childcare workers?
On pay alone it ranks 5 of 51 (+14% vs. the national median of $34,980). Living costs are not included.