Salaries in La Jolla, CA

Updated on Jun 05, 2025
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What is the average salary in La Jolla, CA?

The average salary in La Jolla, CA is $64,184 per year.

La Jolla, CA offers a variety of salary opportunities across different industries. The average salary in La Jolla is around $64,184. This figure provides a good benchmark for job seekers. Salaries can vary widely depending on the field and experience level.


Here are some average salaries for various roles in La Jolla:

  • Entry-level positions: $33,700
  • Mid-level positions: $46,227
  • Senior positions: $58,755
  • Managerial positions: $71,282
  • Executive positions: $83,809
  • Specialized roles: $96,336
  • High-level specialized roles: $108,864
  • Top executive roles: $121,391
  • Director-level roles: $133,918
  • High-ranking executive roles: $146,445
  • Top executive positions: $158,973
  • CEO-level positions: $171,500
These figures show that La Jolla provides competitive pay for many job roles.

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What are the best paying jobs in La Jolla, CA?

Job seekers in La Jolla, CA, have several high-paying career options available. Registered Nurses lead the way with an average salary of $126,574. Radiologic Technologists and Technicians also earn strong incomes, with averages of $105,209 and $96,739, respectively. These roles offer competitive pay and the chance to work in a vibrant community. Other well-paying jobs in La Jolla include Counselors, Surgical Technicians, and Licensed Vocational Nurses. These positions provide good salaries and the opportunity to make a positive impact on people's lives. Job seekers can explore these fields to find a rewarding career with a strong earning potential.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in La Jolla, CA, highlighting Registered Nurse with the highest at $126,574 and Personal Trainer with the lowest at $53,895.
  1. Registered Nurse
    Average Salary: $126,574
    Registered Nurses provide care to patients and help them manage their health. They work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities. They collaborate with doctors and other healthcare professionals to ensure patients receive the best care.
    Find Registered Nurse jobs in La Jolla, CA


  2. Radiologic Technologist
    Average Salary: $105,209
    Radiologic Technologists operate imaging equipment to help diagnose and treat patients. They work in hospitals, imaging centers, and private practices. They ensure patients are comfortable and explain the procedure to them.
    Find Radiologic Technologist jobs in La Jolla, CA


  3. Technician
    Average Salary: $96,739
    Technicians support various industries by maintaining and repairing equipment. They work in manufacturing, healthcare, and technology companies. They ensure machines run smoothly and troubleshoot any issues that arise.
    Find Technician jobs in La Jolla, CA


  4. Counselor
    Average Salary: $93,403
    Counselors help people overcome challenges and improve their mental health. They work in schools, hospitals, and private practices. They provide a safe space for clients to discuss their issues and develop coping strategies.
    Find Counselor jobs in La Jolla, CA


  5. Surgical Technician
    Average Salary: $76,874
    Surgical Technicians assist surgeons during operations. They work in hospitals and surgical centers. They prepare the operating room, sterilize instruments, and help the surgical team during procedures.
    Find Surgical Technician jobs in La Jolla, CA


  6. Licensed Vocational Nurse
    Average Salary: $74,080
    Licensed Vocational Nurses provide basic patient care under the supervision of a doctor. They work in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. They monitor patients' vital signs and assist with daily activities.
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  7. Sous Chef
    Average Salary: $73,801
    Sous Chefs oversee kitchen operations and help prepare meals. They work in restaurants, hotels, and catering companies. They manage kitchen staff, ensure food quality, and develop new recipes.
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  8. Pharmacy Technician
    Average Salary: $57,953
    Pharmacy Technicians assist pharmacists in dispensing medications. They work in pharmacies and hospitals. They fill prescriptions, manage inventory, and provide information to customers.
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  9. Patient Service Representative
    Average Salary: $54,037
    Patient Service Representatives help patients navigate the healthcare system. They work in hospitals, clinics, and private practices. They schedule appointments, answer questions, and handle billing and insurance.
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  10. Personal Trainer
    Average Salary: $53,895
    Personal Trainers help clients achieve their fitness goals. They work in gyms, fitness centers, and private practices. They create workout plans, provide motivation, and monitor progress.
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What are the best paying jobs in La Jolla, CA without a degree?

La Jolla offers a variety of high-paying jobs that do not require a college degree. Restaurant managers can earn up to $70,000 annually. They oversee daily operations, manage staff, and ensure customer satisfaction. Groundskeepers and housekeeping staff also enjoy good pay, with annual earnings around $55,000 and $44,000 respectively. These roles involve maintaining the property and keeping the premises clean and orderly.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in La Jolla, CA without a degree, highlighting Restaurant Manager with the highest at $70,028 and Service Team Member with the lowest at $35,546.
  1. Restaurant Manager
    Average Salary: $70,028
    Manage daily operations of a restaurant. Oversee staff, handle customer service, and ensure smooth service. Work in upscale dining establishments.
    Find Restaurant Manager jobs in La Jolla, CA


  2. Groundskeeper
    Average Salary: $54,940
    Maintain the grounds of properties. Perform tasks such as mowing, trimming, and planting. Work for hotels, resorts, and private properties.
    Find Groundskeeper jobs in La Jolla, CA


  3. Housekeeping
    Average Salary: $43,624
    Clean and maintain rooms in hotels and resorts. Ensure a high standard of cleanliness. Work for luxury hotels and vacation rentals.
    Find Housekeeping jobs in La Jolla, CA


  4. Line Cook
    Average Salary: $40,139
    Prepare food in a fast-paced kitchen. Follow recipes and ensure food quality. Work in restaurants and cafes.
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  5. Floor Tech
    Average Salary: $39,993
    Clean and maintain floors in commercial spaces. Use various cleaning tools and equipment. Work for hotels, offices, and retail stores.
    Find Floor Tech jobs in La Jolla, CA


  6. Beauty Consultant
    Average Salary: $39,400
    Provide beauty advice and product recommendations. Work in retail settings. Help customers find the right products for their needs.
    Find Beauty Consultant jobs in La Jolla, CA


  7. Server
    Average Salary: $38,901
    Serve food and drinks to customers. Take orders and ensure a pleasant dining experience. Work in restaurants and cafes.
    Find Server jobs in La Jolla, CA


  8. Barista
    Average Salary: $37,914
    Prepare and serve coffee and other beverages. Work in coffee shops and cafes. Ensure a high-quality customer experience.
    Find Barista jobs in La Jolla, CA


  9. Dishwasher
    Average Salary: $36,832
    Clean dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment. Work in restaurants and cafes. Ensure a clean and organized kitchen.
    Find Dishwasher jobs in La Jolla, CA


  10. Service Team Member
    Average Salary: $35,546
    Provide excellent customer service. Assist with various tasks in a retail setting. Ensure a positive shopping experience.
    Find Service Team Member jobs in La Jolla, CA

Which companies offer the top salaries in La Jolla, CA?

Job seekers in La Jolla, CA, can find competitive salaries at several top companies. Pfizer leads with an average salary of $143,076, followed closely by Keller Williams Realty at $133,024. UC San Diego offers an average salary of $104,439, making it a strong option for those seeking a balance between salary and benefits. Scripps Health and the Salk Institute for Biological Studies also provide attractive compensation packages, with average salaries of $88,505 and $62,669, respectively. These companies offer rewarding career opportunities with good pay. CVS Health and Mendocino Farms provide average salaries of $54,514 and $50,314, respectively. These companies offer competitive wages for their employees.
Graph displaying company salaries in La Jolla, CA, highlighting Pfizer with the highest at $143,076 and Puesto with the lowest at $45,082.
  1. Pfizer
    Average Salary: $143,076
    Pfizer is a global pharmaceutical company. It offers a range of jobs in research, development, and more. Employees enjoy competitive salaries and benefits.


  2. Keller Williams Realty
    Average Salary: $133,024
    Keller Williams Realty is a leading real estate company. It provides opportunities in sales, management, and customer service. The company values its employees and offers good compensation.


  3. UC San Diego
    Average Salary: $104,439
    UC San Diego is a top university. It offers many jobs in education, research, and administration. Employees benefit from a supportive work environment and good pay.


  4. Scripps Health
    Average Salary: $88,505
    Scripps Health is a renowned healthcare provider. It offers jobs in medical care, administration, and support. The company is committed to employee well-being and offers fair salaries.


  5. Salk Institute for Biological Studies
    Average Salary: $62,669
    The Salk Institute is a leading research organization. It offers jobs in scientific research and support. Employees enjoy a collaborative environment and competitive pay.


  6. CVS Health
    Average Salary: $54,514
    CVS Health is a major healthcare company. It offers jobs in pharmacy, retail, and healthcare services. The company provides good salaries and benefits to its employees.


  7. Mendocino Farms
    Average Salary: $50,314
    Mendocino Farms is a popular restaurant chain. It offers jobs in food service and management. Employees benefit from a dynamic work environment and fair compensation.


  8. EVANS HOTELS
    Average Salary: $48,173
    EVANS HOTELS is a hospitality company. It offers jobs in hotel management and guest services. The company values its employees and offers good pay.


  9. HumanGood
    Average Salary: $48,146
    HumanGood is a non-profit organization. It offers jobs in social services and community support. Employees benefit from a mission-driven work environment and fair compensation.


  10. Puesto
    Average Salary: $45,082
    Puesto is a tech company. It offers jobs in software development and IT support. The company values innovation and offers competitive salaries.

How does the cost of living in La Jolla, CA compare to the national average?

La Jolla, CA, has a significantly higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average. Housing costs in La Jolla are 250% higher than the national average, making it one of the most expensive areas to live in. Other categories like groceries, utilities, and transportation also show elevated costs, with groceries at 130% and utilities at 110% of the national average.
Cost of living comparison graph for La Jolla, CA vs. Nationwide: housing 250% higher, groceries 30% higher, utilities 10% higher, transportation 20% higher, healthcare 5% higher, miscellaneous 50% higher.

The cost of living in La Jolla, California, significantly exceeds the nationwide average, particularly in housing. Housing costs in La Jolla are 250% higher than the national average, with an index of 350 compared to the baseline of 100. This means that housing expenses in La Jolla are more than three times higher than the average American city. Such high costs can greatly impact the budget of potential residents.


Other expenses in La Jolla also surpass the national average, though not as dramatically. Groceries cost 30% more, with an index of 130. Utilities are 10% higher, at 110. Transportation costs are 20% above average, with an index of 120. Healthcare costs are slightly above average, at 5% higher than the national norm, with an index of 105. Miscellaneous expenses, which include items like entertainment and personal care, are 50% higher, with an index of 150. These figures highlight the elevated living costs in La Jolla, making it essential for job seekers to consider these factors when planning their move.

There are 509 job openings in La Jolla, CA, today!

Take a deeper dive into the job market in La Jolla, CA

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La Jolla, CA
509 Job Openings