Paralegal Schools in El Centro, California

Updated January 26, 2026 Table of Contents

Paralegal programs in El Centro, California can help you prepare for a skilled career path. Many programs include classroom instruction and supervised hands-on learning to help you build practical skills before entering the workforce.

Paralegal Schools Near El Centro, California

#1

Arizona Western College

Yuma, AZ 62.1 miles away

Arizona Western College is a Public, 2-year in Yuma, AZ. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across AZ.

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#2

Cuyamaca College

El Cajon, CA 80.4 miles away

Cuyamaca College is a Public, 2-year in El Cajon, CA. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across CA.

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#3

Southwestern College

Chula Vista, CA 84.4 miles away

Southwestern College is a Public, 2-year in Chula Vista, CA. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across CA.

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#4

National University

San Diego, CA 91.2 miles away

National University is a Private nonprofit, 4-year in San Diego, CA. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across CA.

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#5

Northcentral University

San Diego, CA 91.2 miles away

Northcentral University is a Private nonprofit, 4-year in San Diego, CA. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across CA.

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#6

San Diego Miramar College

San Diego, CA 91.3 miles away

San Diego Miramar College is a Public, 2-year in San Diego, CA. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across CA.

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#7

University of San Diego

San Diego, CA 94.8 miles away

University of San Diego is a Private nonprofit, 4-year in San Diego, CA. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across CA.

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#8

Palomar College

San Marcos, CA 97.4 miles away

Palomar College is a Public, 2-year in San Marcos, CA serving about 16,167 students and accredited by Western Association of Schools and Colleges Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across CA.

Tuition
  • In-state tuition: $1,354
  • Out-of-state tuition: $10,650
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#9

Mt San Jacinto Community College District

San Jacinto, CA 106.8 miles away

Mt San Jacinto Community College District is a Public, 2-year in San Jacinto, CA. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across CA.

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#10

Riverside City College

Riverside, CA 133.1 miles away

Riverside City College is a Public, 2-year in Riverside, CA serving about 17,361 students and accredited by Western Association of Schools and Colleges Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across CA.

Tuition
  • In-state tuition: $1,420
  • Out-of-state tuition: $11,230
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Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

Comparing Paralegal Schools Near El Centro

There are 10 schools within 133 miles of El Centro.

SchoolDistanceTuitionGrad RateType
Arizona Western College62.1 miN/AN/APublic, 2-year
Cuyamaca College80.4 miN/AN/APublic, 2-year
Southwestern College84.4 miN/AN/APublic, 2-year
National University91.2 miN/AN/APrivate nonprofit, 4-year
Northcentral University91.2 miN/AN/APrivate nonprofit, 4-year
San Diego Miramar College91.3 miN/AN/APublic, 2-year
University of San Diego94.8 miN/AN/APrivate nonprofit, 4-year
Palomar College97.4 mi$1,354N/APublic, 2-year
Mt San Jacinto Community College District106.8 miN/AN/APublic, 2-year
Riverside City College133.1 mi$1,420N/APublic, 2-year

Source: National Center for Education Statistics, Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).

Paralegal Salary in California

Entry-level paralegals and legal assistants in California earn around $48,000 per year. The median salary is $72,960, which is 19.6% above the national median of $61,010. Top earners make up to $105,350 per year.

California vs. National Paralegal Wages
MetricCaliforniaNational
Median salary$72,960$61,010
Average salary$76,920$66,510
25th percentile$57,040$48,190
75th percentile$95,910$78,280
90th percentile$105,350$98,990

California employs approximately 45,740 paralegals and legal assistants (2.5 per 1,000 workers, location quotient: 1.06).

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2024.

Paralegal Job Outlook

0.2% growth (2024–2034)

Employment of paralegals and legal assistants is projected to grow 0.2% from 2024 to 2034, slower than the average for all occupations. This represents a change from 376,200 to 376,800 jobs nationwide. About 39,300 openings are projected each year on average over the decade, driven by workers transferring to other occupations, retiring, or leaving the labor force.

In California, the concentration of paralegals and legal assistants is near the national average (location quotient: 1.06), which may reflect strong local demand for this trade.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2024.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do paralegals and legal assistants make in California?

The median annual salary for paralegals and legal assistants in California is $72,960. Wages range from $48,000 at the entry level (10th percentile) to $105,350 for top earners (90th percentile). This is based on the most recent Bureau of Labor Statistics data.

How many paralegal schools are near El Centro?

There are 43 Paralegal schools within commuting distance of El Centro. The closest is Arizona Western College, approximately 62.1 miles away. Programs typically combine classroom instruction with hands-on lab work to prepare graduates for entry-level positions.

What is the job outlook for paralegals and legal assistants?

Employment of paralegals and legal assistants is projected to grow 0.2% from 2024 to 2034. About 39,300 job openings are projected each year on average, including positions from growth and replacement needs.

What does paralegal training cost near El Centro?

Annual tuition for paralegal programs near El Centro ranges from $1,156 to $2,838. Costs vary based on program length, institution type, and whether the school is public or private. Financial aid and scholarships may be available to help offset costs.

Is a paralegal in demand in California?

Demand for paralegals and legal assistants in California is typical compared to the rest of the country, with a location quotient of 1.06. The state employs 2.5 paralegals and legal assistants per 1,000 workers.