What is the average salary in Carlsbad, CA?
Carlsbad, CA, offers a variety of job opportunities with competitive salaries. The average yearly salary in the area is $68,387. This figure reflects a diverse range of industries, from healthcare to technology. Many professionals in Carlsbad find that their salaries align well with the cost of living in this coastal city.
The salary distribution in Carlsbad shows a broad range of earnings. The most common salary falls between $33,000 and $48,182. Higher-paying jobs are available, with some roles reaching up to $200,000 per year. Key industries contributing to these salaries include biotechnology, engineering, and education. Job seekers in Carlsbad can expect to find positions that match their skills and experience levels.
What are the best paying jobs in Carlsbad, CA?

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Program Manager
Average Salary: $141,235
This role involves overseeing projects and ensuring they meet goals. It requires strong leadership skills. Companies like biotech firms and tech startups often seek these professionals.
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Systems Engineer
Average Salary: $139,469
This position focuses on designing and maintaining systems. It requires technical skills and problem-solving abilities. Local tech companies and healthcare providers often hire these experts.
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Financial Advisor
Average Salary: $135,081
This role involves helping clients with financial planning. It requires strong communication and analytical skills. Financial institutions and investment firms in the area look for these professionals.
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Product Manager
Average Salary: $133,835
This position involves leading product development. It requires a mix of technical and business skills. Tech companies and consumer goods firms often seek these experts.
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Software Engineer
Average Salary: $132,431
This role involves designing and developing software applications. It requires strong coding skills. Tech companies and software firms in the area often hire these professionals.
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Attorney
Average Salary: $127,581
This position involves providing legal advice and representation. It requires strong analytical and communication skills. Law firms and corporate legal departments often seek these experts.
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Plumbing Technician
Average Salary: $120,595
This role involves installing and repairing plumbing systems. It requires technical skills and attention to detail. Local construction companies and maintenance firms often hire these professionals.
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Project Engineer
Average Salary: $118,147
This position involves overseeing engineering projects. It requires strong organizational and technical skills. Construction firms and engineering companies often seek these experts.
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Technical Project Lead
Average Salary: $117,525
This role involves leading technical projects. It requires strong leadership and technical skills. Tech companies and engineering firms often hire these professionals.
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Construction Project Manager
Average Salary: $117,218
This position involves overseeing construction projects. It requires strong organizational and leadership skills. Construction firms and real estate developers often seek these experts.
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What are the best paying jobs in Carlsbad, CA without a degree?

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Drain Cleaner
Average Salary: $75,192
This job involves clearing blockages in pipes and drains. It is a hands-on role that requires problem-solving skills. Companies like ABC Plumbing offer this opportunity.
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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $52,375
Manage daily operations of a restaurant. Oversee staff, handle customer service, and ensure smooth service. Local eateries like XYZ Diner need skilled managers.
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Powder Coater
Average Salary: $50,397
Apply powder coatings to metal parts. This job requires attention to detail and precision. Companies like ABC Manufacturing offer this role.
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Banquet Houseperson
Average Salary: $45,182
Prepare event spaces for banquets and meetings. Set up tables, chairs, and decorations. Event venues like XYZ Events need reliable housepersons.
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Groundskeeper
Average Salary: $44,361
Maintain the grounds of parks, schools, and other properties. This job involves landscaping and yard work. Local parks departments offer these positions.
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Service Team Member
Average Salary: $44,280
Provide excellent customer service in a fast-paced environment. This role requires teamwork and communication skills. Companies like ABC Retail offer this opportunity.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $41,256
Clean and maintain rooms in hotels or residential properties. This job requires attention to detail and cleanliness. Hotels like XYZ Lodge need housekeepers.
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Kitchen Team Member
Average Salary: $40,832
Assist in food preparation and cooking. This role requires teamwork and efficiency. Restaurants like ABC Bistro offer kitchen positions.
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Landscaper
Average Salary: $40,129
Design and maintain outdoor spaces. This job involves planting, pruning, and landscaping. Companies like XYZ Landscaping offer this role.
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Beauty Consultant
Average Salary: $40,027
Provide beauty advice and product recommendations. This role requires product knowledge and customer service skills. Beauty stores like ABC Cosmetics offer these positions.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Carlsbad, CA?

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Viasat
Average Salary: $157,608
Viasat offers high-tech services in communications and networking. They provide satellite and broadband services.
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Pratt & Whitney
Average Salary: $139,029
Pratt & Whitney is a leader in aerospace engineering. They design and manufacture aircraft engines.
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L3Harris
Average Salary: $135,145
L3Harris focuses on advanced technologies for defense and commercial markets. They develop systems for aerospace and communications.
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Ionis Pharmaceuticals
Average Salary: $124,946
Ionis Pharmaceuticals is a biotech company. They work on developing treatments for serious diseases using RNA-targeted therapies.
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GEI Consultants
Average Salary: $123,376
GEI Consultants provides engineering and environmental consulting services. They offer expertise in various technical fields.
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Vuori
Average Salary: $119,101
Vuori is a lifestyle brand. They create high-performance apparel for active lifestyles.
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Thermo Fisher Scientific
Average Salary: $116,999
Thermo Fisher Scientific is a global leader in scientific instruments and services. They support research and healthcare.
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Orthofix
Average Salary: $109,897
Orthofix specializes in medical devices. They focus on spine and orthopedic treatments.
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Callaway Golf
Average Salary: $109,683
Callaway Golf designs and manufactures golf equipment. They offer a wide range of clubs and accessories.
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Dennis Group
Average Salary: $109,457
Dennis Group is a global provider of industrial equipment. They offer solutions for the food and beverage industry.
How does the cost of living in Carlsbad, CA compare to the national average?

Carlsbad, California, has a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average. The housing index in Carlsbad stands at 152, which is 52% higher than the national average of 100. This means that housing costs in Carlsbad are significantly more than the average American city. For job seekers considering Carlsbad, this higher housing index could be a major factor in their budget planning.
Other expenses in Carlsbad also exceed the national average. The cost of groceries is 12% higher, with an index of 112. Utilities cost 10% more, with an index of 110. Transportation costs are 25% higher, with an index of 125. Healthcare costs are 15% higher, at an index of 115. Miscellaneous expenses are 20% higher, with an index of 120. These figures show that while Carlsbad offers a desirable living environment, it comes with higher expenses across various categories. Job seekers need to consider these costs when evaluating job offers in the area.



