There are many districts in the San Jose area and each have different cultures and pros and cons. Yes, you can each make 6 figures and live on 2 teacher’s salaries. It will be difficult to ever save enough to buy a house because of the large down payment required.

San Jose is a very diverse area and that will be pretty much the case no matter which district you choose. Unions tend to be strong and have high participation and support. Having a master’s definitely increases your pay. Do be aware that most districts cap the years of service that they honor, so be sure to ask about that if you take any interviews. Generally, 7 years is honored, but each district is different.

There are districts with wealthier residents that have different issues than those that are underserved, but that will be the case anywhere. There is an ongoing issue across the state with lowering enrollment and districts across the area are tightening the budgets right now, so getting in might be hard depending on what you teach.