California is home to some of the most diverse and well-regarded school districts in the country, many of which offer unique (and competitive) opportunities for educators. School districts across the state prioritize innovation, support for teachers and student success, with attractive compensation as an added bonus.
If you’re just starting your teaching career or looking for a new position, finding the right district can make all the difference. Here’s a look at the top 10 districts that stand out for their culture, benefits and commitment to educational excellence.
What’s In a District?
No matter the industry, compensation plays a primary role in employment decisions, as it directly impacts one’s financial stability and quality of life. But while competitive pay is certainly a reason to pursue a particular teaching position, there is much more to consider.
For teachers, salary range is greatly affected by geography — that is, districts in more affluent areas may have the means to pay higher salaries. A competitive salary ensures that teachers can meet their personal and family needs, reducing financial stress and allowing them to focus fully on their professional responsibilities. Additional benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans and other incentives provide extra security and support. But the effect extends beyond financial comfort; In districts with fair compensation, teachers feel more motivated and recognized for their hard work and dedication. Districts that offer bonuses and performance-based incentives can further drive teachers to excel in their roles, as it fosters an environment where their efforts are appreciated and rewarded.
Working conditions are equally important when evaluating a school district. Teachers’ overall effectiveness in the classroom can be greatly influenced by factors such as class sizes, available resources and the physical state of the school’s facilities. Manageable class sizes and well-maintained classrooms enable teachers to deliver high-quality education and better meet the diverse needs of their students, without worrying about their health, safety and stress levels. Good working conditions not only help prevent teacher burnout but also foster professional growth and job satisfaction, ultimately leading to better outcomes for both teachers and students. When a district prioritizes both teacher well-being and educational quality, it becomes a more attractive place to work.
Fellow teachers are invaluable resources when it comes to vetting potential employers. Utilize your professional network to find out whether the districts and schools you’re considering meet your criteria for compensation, working conditions and any other non-negotiable factors — if they don’t, keep searching for the right fit.
Top 10 California School Districts to Work For
The following districts have been chosen for the overall quality of their working conditions, compensation, resources, student success rate and support for teachers. They are ranked in no particular order, but represent a wide geographic area to appeal to teachers from all over California.
1. Los Gatos-Saratoga Joint Union High School District
Average Salary: $107,097
Located in the San Francisco Bay Area, the Los Gatos-Saratoga Joint Union High School District serves the high-income communities of Los Gatos and Saratoga. This district is known for small class sizes and highly engaged students, a reputation that’s bolstered by strong community involvement and a well-rounded curriculum that emphasizes both academics and extracurriculars. Teachers benefit from a supportive administration, modern classroom facilities and access to professional development programs.
2. Palo Alto Unified School District
Average Salary: $113,681
Palo Alto Unified in Silicon Valley is one of the top-paying school districts in California. Teachers here enjoy competitive salaries, small class sizes and access to cutting-edge educational technology. The district emphasizes continuous professional development, offering numerous workshops and training sessions throughout the year, as well as substantial resources to support innovative teaching strategies. Palo Alto Unified is also known for its high-performing students, active parental involvement and a collaborative teaching environment.
3. La Cañada Unified School District
Average Salary: $83,912
La Cañada Unified is located in the city of La Cañada Flintridge, northeast of Los Angeles. While it offers a slightly lower average salary compared to other top districts, the district is known for its supportive community and manageable class sizes. Teachers in this district report having access to solid resources and a collaborative work environment. La Cañada Unified also prioritizes teacher development, offering ongoing professional growth opportunities and mentorship programs for new educators.
4. Mountain View-Los Altos Union High School District
Average Salary: $110,000
In the heart of Silicon Valley, the Mountain View-Los Altos Union High School District provides teachers with competitive salaries and ample opportunities for professional growth. This district is known for its emphasis on academic rigor and offers state-of-the-art resources, particularly in STEM education. Teachers report a strong sense of support from the administration, small class sizes and a well-rounded extracurricular program.
5. San Dieguito Union High School District
Average Salary: $95,000
San Dieguito Union High School District serves the coastal communities of San Diego County. Teachers here enjoy a balanced work environment with support from both the administration and the community. The district is known for its strong emphasis on student achievement and well-being, and teachers have access to various professional development programs. Class sizes are generally manageable, allowing for personalized attention to students.
6. Carmel Unified School District
Average Salary: $121,948
Carmel Unified, located in the scenic Monterey Peninsula, is one of the highest-paying districts in California. The district offers small class sizes and extensive resources to support both students and teachers. Carmel Unified emphasizes a comprehensive approach to education, blending academics with a strong arts program. Teachers in this district enjoy significant community support and access to numerous professional development opportunities. The high salary and beautiful location make Carmel Unified a top choice for educators seeking both financial stability and a high quality of life.
7. San Marino Unified School District
Average Salary: $90,000
San Marino Unified, situated near Pasadena in Southern California, consistently ranks as one of the highest-performing school districts in the state. Teachers in San Marino benefit from a highly motivated student body, smaller class sizes and a community that places a strong emphasis on academic excellence. The district also provides opportunities for professional development and encourages collaboration among staff. While the average salary is lower than some neighboring districts, the supportive work environment and high academic standards more than make up for it.
8. Acalanes Union High School District
Average Salary: $97,000
Located in Contra Costa County in the East Bay, Acalanes Union High School District serves mostly affluent suburban communities. Teachers here benefit from competitive salaries and strong administrative support. The district prioritizes student success, with manageable class sizes and a wide range of resources available for both students and teachers. The district’s focus on innovation and academic excellence makes it a great place for educators looking to make an impact.
9. Arcadia Unified School District
Average Salary: $82,000
Arcadia Unified, located in the San Gabriel Valley, is known for its academic rigor and supportive community. While the average salary is lower than some top-paying districts, Arcadia provides teachers with access to modern classroom technology, professional development opportunities and a collaborative work culture. The district’s emphasis on both academic achievement and extracurricular activities creates a well-rounded educational environment. Teachers here report strong administrative support and manageable class sizes, making it a solid choice for educators seeking comfortable work-life balance.
10. Fremont Union High School District
Average Salary: $117,824
Fremont Union High School District in the Cupertino area of Silicon Valley offers one of the highest teacher salaries in the state. Teachers in this district enjoy small class sizes, extensive resources and a focus on academic excellence, particularly in STEM education. With strong administrative support and well-maintained facilities, Fremont Union is highly regarded for creating a positive work environment for educators. The competitive salary and access to high-quality resources make it a top choice for teachers looking to work in the Bay Area.
Highest Paying Runners-Up
While the districts listed above stand out for the overall quality of their programs and facilities, there are a handful of additional districts that are particularly notable for their competitive compensation.
- Solana Beach Elementary School District
Average Salary: $141,209 - Piedmont City Unified School District
Average Salary: $130,072 - Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District
Average Salary: $114,642 - San Francisco Unified School District
Average Salary: $109,901 - Santa Clara Unified School District
Average Salary: $109,420 - San Mateo Union High School District
Average Salary: $108,667
12 Factors to Consider When Choosing a District
As you weigh the pros and cons of various school districts, it helps to create a rubric of sorts to compare all the different factors that should impact your decision. The following 12 factors represent a mix of personal and professional preferences.
- Compensation: Of course, salary, benefits and bonuses are essential for financial security. Evaluate salary scales across districts and examine benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans and any performance-based bonuses or incentives.
- Working conditions: Class sizes, access to resources and the quality of school facilities can significantly impact your ability to deliver effective instruction. Smaller class sizes often allow for more personalized teaching, while well-maintained facilities and adequate resources (such as textbooks, technology and support staff) contribute to a more positive teaching experience.
- Professional development: Prioritize districts that offer robust training opportunities and support for career advancement. This can include in-house professional development, workshops or access to graduate programs that facilitate continual learning and growth.
- School culture and environment: The overall school climate, the level of support from the administration and opportunities for collaboration with colleagues are key to job satisfaction. A supportive administration and a culture of teamwork among teachers can help foster a productive and enjoyable work environment.
- Student demographics and needs: It’s important to understand the diversity of the student population and the specific needs or challenges that come with it. Consider factors like socioeconomic diversity, special education needs and the district’s approach to behavior management and discipline.
- Community and location: Community support for schools and the district’s location can impact your overall experience. Some teachers may prefer working in districts with active parental involvement and community engagement, while location considerations might include proximity to home, commute times or cost of living.
- District reputation and performance: Consider the district’s academic performance, including test scores and graduation rates, as well as its general reputation. A district known for strong academic programs or innovation can be appealing for teachers who want to work in a high-achieving environment.
- Work-life balance: Evaluate the expected workload, hours required and additional duties outside of teaching (like extracurricular activities or administrative tasks). Balancing work with personal life is important for long-term job satisfaction and avoiding burnout.
- Contract terms: Job security, the presence of a teachers’ union and other contract terms can significantly influence your decision. Consider districts that offer tenure, stable contracts and union representation for negotiating wages, benefits and working conditions.
- Technology and innovation: Explore how well a district integrates technology into the classroom. A forward-thinking district with investments in modern educational tools can help you enhance your students’ learning and stay current with best practices in education.
- Parental involvement: High levels of parent engagement can positively impact a school’s culture and your classroom experience. Look for districts where parents are actively involved in their children’s education through volunteering, supporting extracurricular activities or attending school events.
- Special programs and initiatives: Districts with special programs (e.g., gifted and talented, bilingual education, STEM initiatives) or unique teaching models can be attractive for teachers who have specific interests or skills. District-wide initiatives aimed at improving student outcomes may also demonstrate a commitment to educational innovation and teacher support.
All across the country, school districts are seeking highly-qualified teachers to improve student outcomes and foster educational innovation. In such a competitive market, professional credentials are the key to standing out. Many of California’s top districts are looking for educators with advanced skills and qualifications, and earning a master’s degree can significantly expand your job prospects — in fact, teachers with advanced degrees are increasingly preferred throughout the U.S.
Whether you’re just starting or looking to advance your career, pursuing a master’s in education can give you the edge you need to secure a role in some of the state’s most sought-after districts. Explore the 100%-online Master of Education program at the University of San Diego for an innovative opportunity to earn your advanced degree and stand out from the crowd.
