Preschool Teachers Salary in California
Preschool Teachers in California earn a median of $47,400 a year, +24% compared with the U.S. median.
Updated October 2026 · Data: BLS OEWS May 2025 · How we match careers
- Median pay
- $47,400
- vs. U.S. median
- +24% ($38,140)
- Rank among states
- 6 of 51
- Jobs in the state
- 55,700
Pay range in California
The lowest-paid 10% earn under $37,870; the top 10% earn over $65,350. Nationally the range is $28,990 to $61,390.
States ranked near California
Similar jobs in California
- Special Education Teachers, Preschool$59,550 median in California
- Kindergarten Teachers, Except Special Education$82,550 median in California
- Childcare Workers$40,020 median in California
- Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education$99,650 median in California
- Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education$101,370 median in California
- Substitute Teachers, Short-Term$60,300 median in California
Preschool Teachers pay in California
How much do preschool teachers make in California?
The median is $47,400 a year. The lowest-paid 10% earn under $37,870 and the top 10% earn over $65,350. BLS OEWS May 2025.
Is California a good state for preschool teachers?
On pay alone it ranks 6 of 51 (+24% vs. the national median of $38,140). Living costs are not included.