Overview Salaries

Salaries in Costa Mesa, CA

Updated on Oct 11, 2025
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Salary

What is the average salary in Costa Mesa, CA?

The average salary in Costa Mesa, CA is $83,248 per year.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Costa Mesa, CA, showing an average salary of $83,248 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Costa Mesa, CA, showing an average salary of $6,937 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Costa Mesa, CA, showing an average salary of $1,601 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Costa Mesa, CA, showing an average salary of $40 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

The average yearly salary in Costa Mesa, CA, stands at $83,248. This figure reflects the diverse job market in the area, offering competitive pay across various industries. The salary distribution shows a range of earnings, with some sectors offering higher wages than others.


Here are some key points about salaries in Costa Mesa:

  • The highest-paying jobs earn around $223,100 per year.
  • The lowest-paying jobs earn around $33,500 per year.
  • Most jobs fall in the middle, with salaries ranging from $50,736 to $188,627.
  • Industries like technology and healthcare tend to offer higher salaries.

Job seekers in Costa Mesa can find a variety of opportunities with attractive compensation packages.

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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 career opportunities. Technical Programs Manager tops the list with an average salary of $190,248. This role involves overseeing technical projects and ensuring they meet business goals. Other well-paying positions include Solution Architect, Software Engineer, and Electrical Engineer, all offering competitive salaries. Additionally, professionals in legal, finance, and management fields can find lucrative roles. Attorneys, Finance Managers, and Program Managers are among the top earners. These positions require specialized skills and experience, making them highly valued. For those with the right qualifications, Costa Mesa offers a range of high-paying job opportunities.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Costa Mesa, CA, highlighting Technical Programs Manager with the highest at $190,248 and Construction Project Manager with the lowest at $116,092.

  1. Technical Programs Manager
    Average Salary: $190,248
    This role involves managing technical projects and teams. It requires strong leadership skills. Companies like tech firms and startups in Costa Mesa are looking for such professionals.
    Find Technical Programs Manager jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  2. Solution Architect
    Average Salary: $166,484
    Solution architects design and plan IT solutions. They work closely with clients and teams. In Costa Mesa, tech companies and consulting firms value these skills.
    Find Solution Architect jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  3. Software Engineer
    Average Salary: $157,963
    Software engineers develop applications and software systems. They need strong coding skills. Tech companies and software firms in Costa Mesa are hiring for this role.
    Find Software Engineer jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  4. Electrical Engineer
    Average Salary: $150,603
    Electrical engineers design and develop electrical systems. They work on projects ranging from small to large scale. Companies in the tech and manufacturing sectors in Costa Mesa seek these professionals.
    Find Electrical Engineer jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  5. Attorney
    Average Salary: $146,493
    Attorneys provide legal advice and represent clients. They need strong analytical skills. Law firms and corporate legal departments in Costa Mesa are looking for qualified attorneys.
    Find Attorney jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  6. Product Manager
    Average Salary: $145,017
    Product managers oversee the development and launch of products. They need to understand market trends. Tech companies and consumer goods firms in Costa Mesa value this role.
    Find Product Manager jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  7. Finance Manager
    Average Salary: $144,050
    Finance managers oversee financial planning and analysis. They need strong analytical skills. Companies in various sectors in Costa Mesa are hiring for this role.
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  8. Engineer
    Average Salary: $133,899
    Engineers design and develop systems and products. They need strong problem-solving skills. Tech companies and manufacturing firms in Costa Mesa are looking for engineers.
    Find Engineer jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  9. Program Manager
    Average Salary: $126,461
    Program managers oversee multiple projects. They need strong organizational skills. Tech companies and project management firms in Costa Mesa value this role.
    Find Program Manager jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  10. Construction Project Manager
    Average Salary: $116,092
    Construction project managers oversee construction projects. They need strong leadership skills. Construction firms in Costa Mesa are hiring for this role.
    Find Construction Project Manager 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 that do not require a degree. Kitchen Managers earn an average of $81,000 annually, while Restaurant Managers make around $73,000. These positions offer excellent opportunities for those who prefer to enter the workforce without a college degree. Other well-paying jobs include Groundskeeper, Housekeeping, and Beauty Consultant, with average salaries ranging from $48,000 to $45,000. Service Team Members, Line Cooks, and Servers also provide good income, with salaries around $40,000 to $45,000. These roles offer a chance to earn a solid income while gaining valuable experience.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Costa Mesa, CA without a degree, highlighting Kitchen Manager with the highest at $81,007 and Barista with the lowest at $39,759.

  1. Kitchen Manager
    Average Salary: $81,007
    Manage kitchen staff and operations. Ensure food quality and safety. Work in upscale restaurants and hotels.
    Find Kitchen Manager jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  2. Restaurant Manager
    Average Salary: $73,879
    Oversee daily restaurant operations. Handle staff and customer service. Manage budgets and sales. Work in various dining establishments.
    Find Restaurant Manager jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  3. Groundskeeper
    Average Salary: $48,488
    Maintain outdoor spaces. Perform landscaping tasks. Work in parks, schools, and private properties. Use tools and machinery.
    Find Groundskeeper jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  4. Housekeeping
    Average Salary: $46,884
    Clean and maintain rooms. Ensure a tidy environment. Work in hotels, motels, and residential properties. Follow cleaning protocols.
    Find Housekeeping jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  5. Beauty Consultant
    Average Salary: $44,880
    Provide beauty advice and product recommendations. Work in retail stores. Help customers with skincare and makeup. Build customer relationships.
    Find Beauty Consultant jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  6. Service Team Member
    Average Salary: $42,333
    Assist customers with service needs. Work in retail or customer service roles. Provide support and information. Maintain a friendly demeanor.
    Find Service Team Member jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  7. Line Cook
    Average Salary: $40,392
    Prepare food in a fast-paced kitchen. Follow recipes and instructions. Work in restaurants and cafes. Ensure food quality and safety.
    Find Line Cook jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  8. Server
    Average Salary: $39,993
    Serve food and drinks to customers. Take orders and provide recommendations. Work in restaurants and cafes. Ensure a pleasant dining experience.
    Find Server jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  9. Kitchen Team Member
    Average Salary: $39,784
    Assist in kitchen tasks. Support chefs and cooks. Work in restaurants and cafes. Ensure a clean and efficient kitchen.
    Find Kitchen Team Member jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  10. Barista
    Average Salary: $39,759
    Prepare and serve coffee and other beverages. Work in coffee shops. Create specialty drinks. Provide excellent customer service.
    Find Barista jobs in Costa Mesa, CA

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

Job seekers in Costa Mesa, CA, have several top-tier companies to consider for attractive salaries. Deloitte leads the pack with an average salary of $155,223. Synchrony follows closely with an average salary of $154,110. These figures highlight the strong earning potential available in the area. Other notable companies include Crowe LLP, Coast Community College District, and Experian, all offering average salaries above $134,000. Elevance Health, Cushman & Wakefield, and Moffatt & Nichol also provide competitive salaries, ranging from $134,188 to $118,394. Dickies and Vans round out the list with average salaries of $112,552 and $108,971, respectively. These companies present excellent opportunities for professionals seeking rewarding careers in Costa Mesa.
Graph displaying company salaries in Costa Mesa, CA, highlighting Deloitte with the highest at $155,223 and Vans with the lowest at $108,971.

  1. Deloitte
    Average Salary: $155,223
    Deloitte is a global leader in professional services. They offer audit, consulting, financial advisory, and tax services. Deloitte is known for its strong culture and opportunities for growth.


  2. synchrony
    Average Salary: $154,110
    Synchrony is a financial services company. They provide credit card services and consumer banking. Synchrony is a great place to work with a focus on innovation and customer service.


  3. Crowe LLP
    Average Salary: $139,853
    Crowe LLP is a global accounting firm. They offer audit, tax, and consulting services. Crowe LLP is known for its supportive environment and commitment to professional development.


  4. Coast Community College District
    Average Salary: $137,580
    The Coast Community College District includes several colleges. They offer a range of programs and services. The district is dedicated to providing quality education and career training.


  5. Experian
    Average Salary: $137,023
    Experian is a global information services company. They provide data and analytics. Experian is known for its innovative approach and strong corporate culture.


  6. Elevance Health
    Average Salary: $134,188
    Elevance Health is a health company. They focus on improving health outcomes. Elevance Health is committed to providing quality care and support to its members.


  7. Cushman & Wakefield
    Average Salary: $120,475
    Cushman & Wakefield is a real estate services firm. They offer property management, leasing, and valuation services. The company is known for its global reach and professional expertise.


  8. Moffatt & Nichol
    Average Salary: $118,394
    Moffatt & Nichol is an engineering and architecture firm. They provide design and consulting services. The company is known for its innovative projects and strong client relationships.


  9. Dickies
    Average Salary: $112,552
    Dickies is a clothing company. They specialize in workwear and outdoor clothing. Dickies is known for its durable products and strong brand reputation.


  10. Vans
    Average Salary: $108,971
    Vans is a footwear and apparel company. They are known for their iconic skate shoes and streetwear. Vans is committed to creativity and community engagement.

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 125, which is 25% higher than the national average of 100. This increase is largely driven by housing costs, which are 70% higher than the national average. Other categories like groceries, utilities, and transportation also show elevated costs, contributing to the overall higher living expenses in Costa Mesa.
Cost of living comparison graph for Costa Mesa, CA vs. Nationwide: housing 70% higher, groceries 10% higher, utilities 5% higher, transportation 20% higher, healthcare 0% lower, miscellaneous 15% higher.

The cost of living in Costa Mesa, CA, stands significantly higher than the nationwide average, which is set at 100. Housing costs in Costa Mesa are particularly elevated, with an index of 170. This means that housing expenses are 70% higher than the average American city. For those considering a move, this could mean a substantial increase in monthly housing payments.


Other areas of spending also show higher costs in Costa Mesa. Groceries have an index of 110, indicating a 10% increase over the national average. Utilities, at 105, are 5% higher, while transportation costs, indexed at 120, are 20% above average. Miscellaneous expenses, with an index of 115, are 15% higher than the national average. These figures suggest that while Costa Mesa offers many benefits, potential residents should be prepared for higher living expenses.

There are 1,380 job openings in Costa Mesa, CA, today!

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Costa Mesa, CA
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