Overview Salaries

Salaries in Costa Mesa, CA

Updated on Nov 10, 2025
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What is the average salary in Costa Mesa, CA?

The average salary in Costa Mesa, CA is $84,529 per year.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Costa Mesa, CA, showing an average salary of $84,529 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Costa Mesa, CA, showing an average salary of $7,044 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Costa Mesa, CA, showing an average salary of $1,626 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Costa Mesa, CA, showing an average salary of $41 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Costa Mesa, CA offers a variety of job opportunities with competitive salaries. The average yearly salary in the area is $84,529. This figure reflects the diverse range of industries present, from technology to healthcare. Many professionals find rewarding positions that align with their skills and experience.


The salary distribution in Costa Mesa shows a broad range of earnings. The most common salaries range from $33,750 to $120,682. This range indicates that there are many entry-level and mid-level positions available. Higher-paying jobs, such as those in the top 10% of earners, can reach up to $225,000 annually. This diversity makes Costa Mesa an attractive place for job seekers looking to advance their careers.

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What are the best paying jobs in Costa Mesa, CA?

Job seekers in Costa Mesa, CA, have access to several high-paying opportunities. Technical Programs Managers lead the way with an average salary of $192,445. This role involves managing technical programs and ensuring they meet business goals. Other top-paying jobs include Solution Architect, Software Engineer, and Electrical Engineer, all offering competitive salaries. These positions require specialized skills and experience. Solution Architects design software solutions, earning around $165,558. Software Engineers develop applications, with an average salary of $160,062. Electrical Engineers work on electrical systems, earning about $154,296. These roles provide excellent career growth and financial rewards.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Costa Mesa, CA, highlighting Technical Programs Manager with the highest at $192,445 and Technical Project Lead with the lowest at $113,568.

  1. Technical Programs Manager
    Average Salary: $192,445
    This role involves managing technical projects and teams. It requires strong leadership and communication skills. Companies like tech firms and startups often seek these professionals.
    Find Technical Programs Manager jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  2. Solution Architect
    Average Salary: $165,558
    Solution architects design and plan IT systems. They work with clients to understand their needs. Tech companies and consulting firms hire these experts.
    Find Solution Architect jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  3. Software Engineer
    Average Salary: $160,062
    Software engineers develop applications and software. They write code and test programs. Many tech companies and software firms look for these skilled professionals.
    Find Software Engineer jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  4. Electrical Engineer
    Average Salary: $154,296
    Electrical engineers design and develop electrical systems. They work on projects ranging from small devices to large power networks. They are in demand in tech and manufacturing sectors.
    Find Electrical Engineer jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  5. Product Manager
    Average Salary: $146,824
    Product managers oversee the development of products. They work with cross-functional teams to bring products to market. Tech companies and consumer goods firms hire these professionals.
    Find Product Manager jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  6. Attorney
    Average Salary: $146,791
    Attorneys provide legal advice and represent clients. They handle cases in various areas of law. Law firms and corporate legal departments seek these professionals.
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  7. Finance Manager
    Average Salary: $144,847
    Finance managers oversee financial operations. They manage budgets, investments, and financial planning. Companies in various industries hire these experts.
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  8. Engineer
    Average Salary: $135,076
    Engineers design and develop systems and products. They work in various fields, from civil to mechanical engineering. They are needed in construction, manufacturing, and tech companies.
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  9. Program Manager
    Average Salary: $128,072
    Program managers oversee multiple projects. They ensure projects align with organizational goals. Tech companies, government agencies, and non-profits hire these professionals.
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  10. Technical Project Lead
    Average Salary: $113,568
    Technical project leads manage technical teams and projects. They ensure projects are completed on time and within budget. Tech companies and IT firms often seek these professionals.
    Find Technical Project Lead jobs in Costa Mesa, CA

What are the best paying jobs in Costa Mesa, CA without a degree?

Job seekers in Costa Mesa, CA, can find several high-paying roles without needing a degree. Kitchen Managers earn an average of $79,289 annually, while Restaurant Managers make around $74,264. These positions offer competitive pay and valuable experience in the bustling hospitality industry. Other top-paying jobs include Groundskeepers, who earn about $48,458, and Housekeeping staff who make around $46,940. Service Team Members, Beauty Consultants, and various kitchen and server roles also provide good salaries. These jobs offer a chance to earn well while gaining skills in a dynamic environment.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Costa Mesa, CA without a degree, highlighting Kitchen Manager with the highest at $79,289 and Barista with the lowest at $39,847.

  1. Kitchen Manager
    Average Salary: $79,289
    Manage kitchen staff and operations. Oversee food preparation and quality. Work in upscale restaurants and hotels.
    Find Kitchen Manager jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  2. Restaurant Manager
    Average Salary: $74,264
    Supervise restaurant staff and operations. Ensure customer satisfaction. Manage budgets and inventory. Work in various dining establishments.
    Find Restaurant Manager jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  3. Groundskeeper
    Average Salary: $48,458
    Maintain outdoor areas, including lawns and gardens. Perform landscaping tasks. Work for property management companies and parks.
    Find Groundskeeper jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  4. Housekeeping
    Average Salary: $46,940
    Clean and maintain rooms in hotels and resorts. Ensure a tidy and welcoming environment. Work for hospitality companies.
    Find Housekeeping jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  5. Service Team Member
    Average Salary: $42,288
    Provide excellent customer service. Handle reservations and inquiries. Work in restaurants and cafes.
    Find Service Team Member jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  6. Beauty Consultant
    Average Salary: $41,313
    Advise customers on beauty products. Perform makeup applications and skincare treatments. Work in retail stores and spas.
    Find Beauty Consultant jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  7. Line Cook
    Average Salary: $40,413
    Prepare food in a fast-paced kitchen. Follow recipes and cook in bulk. Work in restaurants and cafes.
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  8. Server
    Average Salary: $40,177
    Take orders and serve food and drinks. Ensure customers have a pleasant dining experience. Work in restaurants and cafes.
    Find Server jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  9. Kitchen Team Member
    Average Salary: $39,983
    Assist in food preparation and cooking. Support the kitchen staff. Work in various dining establishments.
    Find Kitchen Team Member jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  10. Barista
    Average Salary: $39,847
    Prepare and serve coffee and other beverages. Interact with customers. Work in coffee shops and cafes.
    Find Barista jobs in Costa Mesa, CA

Which companies offer the top salaries in Costa Mesa, CA?

Job seekers in Costa Mesa, CA, can find excellent opportunities with top-paying companies. Deloitte leads the way with an average salary of $157,113. Synchrony follows closely with an average salary of $153,725. These companies offer competitive compensation packages, making them attractive options for professionals seeking rewarding careers. Other notable companies in Costa Mesa include Crowe LLP, Experian, and Coast Community College District, all offering average salaries above $130,000. Elevance Health, Cushman & Wakefield, and Moffatt & Nichol also provide strong earning potential. Dickies and Vans, while still offering good salaries, average slightly lower. These companies present a range of opportunities for job seekers looking to balance salary with career satisfaction.
Graph displaying company salaries in Costa Mesa, CA, highlighting Deloitte with the highest at $157,113 and Vans with the lowest at $111,210.

  1. Deloitte
    Average Salary: $157,113
    Deloitte is a leading global provider of audit and assurance, consulting, financial advisory, and tax services. They offer a dynamic work environment with opportunities for growth.


  2. synchrony
    Average Salary: $153,725
    Synchrony is a financial services company that provides consumer banking and financing solutions. They focus on innovation and customer satisfaction.


  3. Crowe LLP
    Average Salary: $141,974
    Crowe LLP is a global accounting firm that offers a wide range of services. They value teamwork and professional development.


  4. Experian
    Average Salary: $140,007
    Experian is a global information services company. They provide data and analytical services to businesses and consumers.


  5. Coast Community College District
    Average Salary: $137,761
    The Coast Community College District offers higher education opportunities. They focus on providing quality education and career training.


  6. Elevance Health
    Average Salary: $132,128
    Elevance Health is a health benefits organization. They aim to improve health outcomes and reduce costs for their members.


  7. Cushman & Wakefield
    Average Salary: $122,019
    Cushman & Wakefield is a global real estate services company. They offer a variety of services including property management and investment sales.


  8. Moffatt & Nichol
    Average Salary: $117,203
    Moffatt & Nichol is a design and engineering firm. They focus on creating sustainable and innovative solutions for their clients.


  9. Dickies
    Average Salary: $112,552
    Dickies is a leading manufacturer of workwear. They offer a range of products designed for durability and comfort.


  10. Vans
    Average Salary: $111,210
    Vans is a footwear and apparel company. They are known for their iconic style and commitment to quality.

How does the cost of living in Costa Mesa, CA compare to the national average?

Costa Mesa, CA, has a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average. The overall cost of living index in Costa Mesa stands at 120, which is 20% higher than the national average of 100. This increase is largely driven by housing costs, which are 100% higher than the national average. Other factors, such as groceries, utilities, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous expenses, also contribute to the elevated cost of living in Costa Mesa.
Cost of living comparison graph for Costa Mesa, CA vs. Nationwide: housing 100% higher, groceries 10% higher, utilities 20% higher, transportation 15% higher, healthcare 5% higher, miscellaneous 30% higher.

The cost of living in Costa Mesa, California, stands significantly higher than the nationwide average, which is set at 100. Housing costs in Costa Mesa are notably elevated, with an index of 200. This means housing expenses are 100% higher than the average American city. For job seekers considering a move, this could mean a substantial portion of their budget will go towards rent or mortgage payments.


Other expenses in Costa Mesa also exceed the national average. Groceries, for instance, have an index of 110, indicating a 10% increase over the average. Utilities cost 20% more, with an index of 120, while transportation costs are 15% higher at 115. Healthcare costs are slightly below average at 105, offering a small relief. Miscellaneous costs, however, stand at 130, showing a 30% increase. Overall, Costa Mesa presents a higher cost of living across most categories, making it essential for job seekers to consider these factors in their relocation plans.

There are 1,373 job openings in Costa Mesa, CA, today!

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Costa Mesa, CA
1,373 Job Openings

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