Social worker wants to move back to Berkeley - how much income do I need?

So, I lived in Berkeley about 15 years ago.  It is hard to believe it has been so long.  I left because I was a new graduate level social worker, wanted to adopt a child as a single parent, and couldn't afford to do it there.  Fast forward to now, I have lots of experience and am more marketable, have 2 children, live in Oregon, and really want to come back.  I know housing is extremely expensive to put it mildly.  However, I want to return so badly.  My kids are 10 and 13 and next school year would be heading to middle school and high school.

Here are my questions.I am an LCSW in Oregon, and have an MSW.  Not sure if my licensure would transfer.  I am thinking for a decent paying job I should be looking at community colleges and hospitals.  Any other ideas?   How much do you think I would need to earn to pay for decent housing?  Where should I consider living so the kids would be able to attend decent schools.

Sorry if I seem naive.  I know things are very expensive there, but I want to see if I can make something work out.

Thank you so much!  Robyn

Parent Replies

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Hi Robyn,

consider working for UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital in Oakland -- LinkedIn can show some openings.  Your MSW qualifies you for a level II position. You will need to register with the board of behavioral science in Sacramento. 

Housing is tight and expensive. Consider sharing. Albany has the sweetest school district. Berkeley is lottery based so your kids can end up at different schools. 

Good luck 

I just wanted to respond and say, yes, Berkeley is the lottery and that can it work out.  The fact that your children are in middle and high school means they will be at different schools for a few years, and then your youngest child will end up in high school with his/her sibling (there's a sibling preference) and also only one high school!