Overview Salaries

Salaries in Costa Mesa, CA

Updated on Mar 10, 2026
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Salary

What is the average salary in Costa Mesa, CA?

The average salary in Costa Mesa, CA is $90,330 per year.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Costa Mesa, CA, showing an average salary of $90,330 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Costa Mesa, CA, showing an average salary of $7,528 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Costa Mesa, CA, showing an average salary of $1,737 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Costa Mesa, CA, showing an average salary of $43 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Salaries in Costa Mesa, CA, offer a range of opportunities for job seekers. The average yearly salary stands at about $90,330. This figure reflects the city's diverse job market, providing competitive pay across various industries.


Common job sectors in Costa Mesa include healthcare, technology, and manufacturing. These sectors generally offer salaries that align with or exceed the city's average. For example, positions in technology often range from $86,773 to over $227,500 annually. Such diversity in salary ranges makes Costa Mesa a promising location for those 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 some top-paying roles. The city offers lucrative positions in engineering, finance, and tech. The highest-paying jobs include Technical Programs Manager, Systems Engineer, and Software Engineer, with average salaries reaching over $160,000. These roles combine strong demand and competitive compensation, making them excellent choices for skilled professionals. Opportunities in legal and finance also provide substantial pay. Attorneys and Finance Managers in Costa Mesa enjoy average salaries around $150,000. These careers require expertise and offer a strong return on investment for education and experience. Mechanical and Electrical Engineers also find rewarding positions with salaries over $140,000. These roles reflect the city's robust industry presence and commitment to innovation.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Costa Mesa, CA, highlighting Technical Programs Manager with the highest at $193,335 and Engineer with the lowest at $137,395.

  1. Technical Programs Manager
    Average Salary: $193,335
    This role oversees technical projects in tech companies. Managers work with different teams to ensure projects meet goals. They collaborate closely with software developers and project managers.
    Find Technical Programs Manager jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  2. Systems Engineer
    Average Salary: $169,400
    This position involves maintaining and upgrading computer systems. Engineers must ensure the systems run smoothly and efficiently. They work with IT teams and management to solve technical issues.
    Find Systems Engineer jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  3. Software Engineer
    Average Salary: $168,788
    Software engineers create and maintain software applications. They write code and test the software to ensure it works well. Companies like tech firms and startups hire these professionals.
    Find Software Engineer jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  4. Solution Architect
    Average Salary: $167,155
    This role focuses on designing solutions that meet business needs. Architects work with stakeholders to create the technical blueprint for software systems. They collaborate with developers and project managers to ensure successful implementation.
    Find Solution Architect jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  5. Electrical Engineer
    Average Salary: $163,539
    Electrical engineers design and test electrical equipment. They ensure systems function properly and safely. Companies in manufacturing and technology often hire these professionals.
    Find Electrical Engineer jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  6. Product Manager
    Average Salary: $153,861
    Product managers lead the development of new products. They work with cross-functional teams to bring products to market. They analyze market trends and customer feedback to guide product strategy.
    Find Product Manager jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  7. Attorney
    Average Salary: $149,588
    Attorneys provide legal advice and represent clients in court. They handle a range of legal issues, from business disputes to personal injury cases. Law firms and corporations hire these professionals.
    Find Attorney jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  8. Finance Manager
    Average Salary: $147,517
    Finance managers oversee an organization's financial health. They prepare budgets, monitor expenses, and ensure compliance with financial regulations. Companies across industries hire these professionals.
    Find Finance Manager jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  9. Mechanical Engineer
    Average Salary: $141,898
    Mechanical engineers design and develop mechanical systems. They work on everything from machines to HVAC systems. Companies in manufacturing and construction hire these professionals.
    Find Mechanical Engineer jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  10. Engineer
    Average Salary: $137,395
    Engineers apply scientific and mathematical principles to solve problems. They design, build, and test systems and products. Various industries, including tech and manufacturing, hire these professionals.
    Find Engineer jobs in Costa Mesa, CA

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

In Costa Mesa, CA, job seekers looking for high-paying roles without a degree have several lucrative options. Roles such as Restaurant Manager and Kitchen Manager stand out with average salaries of $78,363 and $74,796 per year, respectively. These positions offer not only competitive pay but also the potential for growth and advancement in the service industry. Other good choices include Groundskeeper, Housekeeping, and Service Team Member. Each of these roles provides a solid income, with salaries ranging from $48,088 to $42,427 annually. These jobs are accessible and can serve as a stepping stone to more specialized or higher-paying positions.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Costa Mesa, CA without a degree, highlighting Restaurant Manager with the highest at $78,363 and Barista with the lowest at $40,059.

  1. Restaurant Manager
    Average Salary: $78,363
    Oversee daily operations at dining establishments. Manage staff, handle budgets, and ensure customer satisfaction. Companies like The Cheesecake Factory and Panera Bread offer such roles.
    Find Restaurant Manager jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  2. Kitchen Manager
    Average Salary: $74,796
    Lead kitchen staff and ensure smooth food preparation. Schedule employees and maintain kitchen inventory. Companies like Chipotle Mexican Grill and In-N-Out Burger seek such managers.
    Find Kitchen Manager jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  3. Groundskeeper
    Average Salary: $48,976
    Maintain the landscape and grounds of commercial properties. Perform tasks like mowing, trimming, and snow removal. Landscape companies and golf courses in the area offer opportunities.
    Find Groundskeeper jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  4. Housekeeping
    Average Salary: $48,088
    Clean and maintain rooms at hotels and motels. Ensure rooms meet cleanliness standards. Hilton and Marriott provide numerous housekeeping positions.
    Find Housekeeping jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  5. Service Team Member
    Average Salary: $42,427
    Assist customers with their needs in retail or service settings. Provide support and ensure a positive experience. Companies like Apple and Verizon offer such roles.
    Find Service Team Member jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  6. Beauty Consultant
    Average Salary: $41,313
    Provide beauty advice and product sales in retail stores. Educate customers on skincare and makeup. Ulta Beauty and Sephora offer positions in this field.
    Find Beauty Consultant jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  7. Server
    Average Salary: $41,062
    Take orders, serve food, and provide information about menu items. Ensure a positive dining experience for customers. Restaurants like Red Robin and California Pizza Kitchen hire servers.
    Find Server jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  8. Kitchen Team Member
    Average Salary: $40,788
    Assist in food preparation and support kitchen operations. Work closely with chefs and cooks. Local cafes and bistros offer these positions.
    Find Kitchen Team Member jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  9. Line Cook
    Average Salary: $40,440
    Prepare ingredients and cook food on production lines. Work efficiently in fast-paced environments. Restaurants and fast-food chains offer many line cook opportunities.
    Find Line Cook jobs in Costa Mesa, CA


  10. Barista
    Average Salary: $40,059
    Prepare and serve coffee and other beverages. Operate coffee machines and ensure a welcoming atmosphere. Coffee shops like Starbucks and Peet's Coffee offer barista positions.
    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 excellent opportunities for high-paying roles. Companies such as Deloitte, Synchrony, and Crowe LLP are among the top employers offering competitive salaries. Deloitte leads the pack with an average salary of $161,092, making it an attractive choice for those seeking lucrative career options in the area. Other notable companies in Costa Mesa include Experian, Coast Community College District, and Elevance Health, which also provide competitive compensation. These companies offer average salaries ranging from $135,671 to $140,952. Exploring opportunities with these firms can lead to rewarding career paths and financial stability for those looking to advance in their professional journey.
Graph displaying company salaries in Costa Mesa, CA, highlighting Deloitte with the highest at $161,092 and Vans with the lowest at $110,061.

  1. Deloitte
    Average Salary: $161,092
    Deloitte is a global leader in professional services, offering audit, consulting, financial advisory, and tax services. It helps businesses navigate the complexities of the modern world.


  2. synchrony
    Average Salary: $154,353
    Synchrony provides financial services and credit card solutions. It helps consumers finance their purchases and offers a range of banking products.


  3. Crowe LLP
    Average Salary: $140,952
    Crowe LLP is a public accounting firm known for its expertise in audit, accounting, and consulting services. It serves a wide range of clients across various industries.


  4. Experian
    Average Salary: $140,728
    Experian is a global credit reporting agency. It provides credit information and analytics to help individuals and businesses make informed decisions.


  5. Coast Community College District
    Average Salary: $139,196
    The Coast Community College District offers higher education and vocational training. It includes three colleges that provide various academic programs and certifications.


  6. Elevance Health
    Average Salary: $135,671
    Elevance Health focuses on health solutions. It offers a range of health services and aims to improve the health of its members.


  7. Cushman & Wakefield
    Average Salary: $124,780
    Cushman & Wakefield is a global real estate services firm. It provides property management, leasing, and consulting services to businesses and investors.


  8. Moffatt & Nichol
    Average Salary: $117,122
    Moffatt & Nichol offers architectural, engineering, and consulting services. It helps clients with infrastructure and design projects across the country.


  9. Dickies
    Average Salary: $112,552
    Dickies is a leading manufacturer of workwear. It provides durable clothing and accessories for professionals in various industries.


  10. Vans
    Average Salary: $110,061
    Vans is a popular footwear and apparel brand. It is known for its casual and skate shoes, as well as its commitment to youth culture and creativity.

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

Costa Mesa, CA, has a higher cost of living index compared to the nationwide average, which is set at 100. Housing costs in Costa Mesa are notably higher at 188, indicating a significant 88% increase above the average. Other categories such as groceries and transportation also show increases, with groceries at 115 and transportation at 120, reflecting a 15% and 20% rise, respectively.
Cost of living comparison graph for Costa Mesa, CA vs. Nationwide: housing 88% higher, groceries 15% higher, utilities 5% higher, transportation 20% higher, healthcare 20% higher, miscellaneous 10% higher.

Costa Mesa, California, shows a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average, which stands at 100. In Costa Mesa, the housing index is notably 188, indicating that housing costs are nearly double the national average. Job seekers need to be prepared for significantly higher expenses in this area. The transportation index is also elevated at 120, suggesting that commuting costs are 20% higher than the national average. Groceries and healthcare in Costa Mesa are slightly above average, with indices of 115 and 120 respectively, reflecting a 15% and 20% increase over the national baseline.


Utilities in Costa Mesa stand at an index of 105, which is 5% higher than the national average. Miscellaneous costs, including entertainment and other personal expenses, are at 110, showing a 10% increase. These figures indicate that while Costa Mesa offers a desirable living environment, it comes with higher living expenses across most categories. Understanding these indices helps job seekers make informed decisions when relocating to Costa Mesa.

There are 1,360 job openings in Costa Mesa, CA, today!

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