Overview Salaries

Salaries in La Jolla, CA

Updated on Aug 21, 2026
City
Salary

What is the average salary in La Jolla, CA?

The average salary in La Jolla, CA is $72,135 per year.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for La Jolla, CA, showing an average salary of $72,135 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for La Jolla, CA, showing an average salary of $6,011 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for La Jolla, CA, showing an average salary of $1,387 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for La Jolla, CA, showing an average salary of $35 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Job seekers in La Jolla, CA, can expect competitive salaries across various sectors. The average yearly salary stands at $72,135, reflecting a strong job market. A breakdown shows the salary distribution varies across different professions.


Salaries range widely from $34,750 to $175,200 annually. Some of the highest paying jobs include management roles, followed by IT, healthcare, and finance positions. This diversity offers many opportunities for professionals with different skills and interests. With these numbers, La Jolla presents a promising landscape for those looking to advance their careers.

View jobs in La Jolla, CA
View all jobs in La Jolla, CA

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

In La Jolla, California, several professions offer high salaries, making them attractive to job seekers. Registered Nurses, for instance, can expect an average salary of $130,892. Other top-paying jobs include Speech Language Pathologists, who earn around $125,909, and Occupational Therapists, with an average salary of $121,849. These careers provide excellent earning potential for those in healthcare and therapy fields. Aside from healthcare, professionals in diagnostic and technical roles also see good pay. Radiologic Technologists, for example, earn an average of $116,030, while Technicians make around $92,589. Those interested in the culinary arts can find good salaries as Sous Chefs, with an average of $70,853. These jobs offer stability and competitive pay, making La Jolla an appealing place for career growth.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in La Jolla, CA, highlighting Registered Nurse with the highest at $130,892 and Sous Chef with the lowest at $70,853.

  1. Registered Nurse
    Average Salary: $130,892
    Registered Nurses work in hospitals and clinics to care for patients. They work with doctors to create care plans and monitor patient progress. Many local healthcare facilities offer ongoing training and career advancement.
    Find Registered Nurse jobs in La Jolla, CA


  2. Speech Language Pathologist
    Average Salary: $125,909
    Speech Language Pathologists help patients who have trouble speaking or swallowing. They work in rehab centers and private practices. These professionals often assist patients recovering from strokes or injuries.
    Find Speech Language Pathologist jobs in La Jolla, CA


  3. Occupational Therapist
    Average Salary: $121,849
    Occupational Therapists help people recover from injuries or disabilities. They work in hospitals, schools, and rehabilitation centers. These therapists create treatment plans to help patients regain their daily living skills.
    Find Occupational Therapist jobs in La Jolla, CA


  4. Radiologic Technologist
    Average Salary: $116,030
    Radiologic Technologists operate imaging equipment such as X-rays and MRIs. They work in hospitals and diagnostic labs. These professionals ensure patients receive accurate imaging for proper diagnosis and treatment.
    Find Radiologic Technologist jobs in La Jolla, CA


  5. Counselor
    Average Salary: $97,632
    Counselors support individuals facing emotional and mental challenges. They work in community centers, schools, and private practices. Counselors help clients develop coping strategies and improve their mental health.
    Find Counselor jobs in La Jolla, CA


  6. Technician
    Average Salary: $92,589
    Technicians in various fields, such as medical or dental, assist professionals in providing care. They work in clinics, labs, and other healthcare settings. Technicians ensure that all equipment functions correctly and maintain cleanliness.
    Find Technician jobs in La Jolla, CA


  7. Physical Therapist Assistant
    Average Salary: $92,224
    Physical Therapist Assistants help patients recover from injuries and improve mobility. They work in clinics and hospitals under the supervision of physical therapists. These assistants provide exercises and treatments as directed.
    Find Physical Therapist Assistant jobs in La Jolla, CA


  8. Surgical Technician
    Average Salary: $82,722
    Surgical Technicians assist during surgeries by preparing the operating room and helping surgeons with tools and instruments. They work in hospitals and outpatient care centers. Technicians ensure a sterile environment and assist in patient care.
    Find Surgical Technician jobs in La Jolla, CA


  9. Licensed Vocational Nurse
    Average Salary: $78,063
    Licensed Vocational Nurses provide basic patient care in clinics and hospitals. They work under the supervision of doctors and registered nurses. These nurses take vital signs, administer medication, and assist in patient care.
    Find Licensed Vocational Nurse jobs in La Jolla, CA


  10. Sous Chef
    Average Salary: $70,853
    Sous Chefs oversee kitchen operations and assist head chefs in preparing meals. They work in restaurants and hotels. Sous Chefs manage kitchen staff, ensure food quality, and help create new menu items.
    Find Sous Chef jobs in La Jolla, CA

What are the best paying jobs in La Jolla, CA without a degree?

Finding a well-paying job in La Jolla, CA, without needing a degree is possible. One of the highest-paying roles is Restaurant Manager, with an average salary of $72,605. Housekeeping also offers strong earnings, averaging $47,000 per year. These positions allow individuals to earn good money while leveraging their skills and experience. Beauty Consultant, Line Cook, Server, and other similar roles provide competitive pay and opportunities for advancement. These jobs value talent and hard work, ensuring job seekers can thrive in La Jolla’s vibrant economy.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in La Jolla, CA without a degree, highlighting Restaurant Manager with the highest at $72,605 and Service Team Member with the lowest at $37,331.

  1. Restaurant Manager
    Average Salary: $72,605
    Manage day-to-day restaurant operations. Ensure a smooth customer experience. Work at renowned eateries in the area.
    Find Restaurant Manager jobs in La Jolla, CA


  2. Housekeeping
    Average Salary: $47,000
    Clean and maintain guest rooms. Ensure a comfortable stay for visitors. Find opportunities with luxury hotels and resorts.
    Find Housekeeping jobs in La Jolla, CA


  3. Beauty Consultant
    Average Salary: $42,570
    Offer makeup and skincare advice. Work in high-end stores. Build relationships with customers to provide personalized services.
    Find Beauty Consultant jobs in La Jolla, CA


  4. Line Cook
    Average Salary: $42,376
    Prepare meals quickly in a fast-paced kitchen. Work under pressure in busy restaurants. Gain experience in different cuisines.
    Find Line Cook jobs in La Jolla, CA


  5. Server
    Average Salary: $41,638
    Take orders and serve food and drinks. Provide excellent customer service. Work in elegant dining establishments.
    Find Server jobs in La Jolla, CA


  6. Floor Tech
    Average Salary: $41,611
    Maintain cleanliness and safety of the facility. Clean floors and common areas. Work in busy venues and hotels.
    Find Floor Tech jobs in La Jolla, CA


  7. Barista
    Average Salary: $39,761
    Prepare coffee and other beverages. Serve customers with a friendly attitude. Work in trendy cafes and coffee shops.
    Find Barista jobs in La Jolla, CA


  8. Dishwasher
    Average Salary: $38,980
    Clean dishes and kitchen tools. Keep the kitchen area tidy. Work in various food service establishments.
    Find Dishwasher jobs in La Jolla, CA


  9. Server Assistant
    Average Salary: $38,221
    Help servers with tasks. Ensure a seamless dining experience. Work in bustling restaurants.
    Find Server Assistant jobs in La Jolla, CA


  10. Service Team Member
    Average Salary: $37,331
    Provide support to servers and kitchen staff. Ensure guests are well taken care of. Work in a busy environment.
    Find Service Team Member jobs in La Jolla, CA

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

Job seekers looking to La Jolla, CA, can expect competitive salaries from several top companies. Pfizer leads the pack with an impressive average salary of $146,055. Keller Williams Realty follows closely with $137,235 per year. These figures highlight the potential for strong earnings in the area. Other notable employers include Vaco, UC San Diego, and Scripps Health, all offering salaries above $100,000. The Salk Institute for Biological Studies and Evans Hotels provide competitive pay as well, with averages around $70,000. CVS Health, Front Porch Communities and Services, and My Senior Health Plan offer salaries ranging from $51,000 to $56,000. This range reflects the variety of opportunities available in La Jolla.
Graph displaying company salaries in La Jolla, CA, highlighting Pfizer with the highest at $146,055 and My Senior Health Plan with the lowest at $51,145.

  1. Pfizer
    Average Salary: $146,055
    Pfizer, a global pharmaceutical company, offers competitive salaries. They focus on creating innovative medicines and vaccines.


  2. Keller Williams Realty
    Average Salary: $137,235
    This top real estate firm rewards its agents with attractive salaries. Keller Williams values excellence and leadership in real estate.


  3. Vaco
    Average Salary: $123,669
    Vaco provides staffing services and offers competitive salaries. They aim to connect talent with great opportunities.


  4. UC San Diego
    Average Salary: $102,649
    UC San Diego is a leading research university. It offers a range of positions with good salaries. The university values education and innovation.


  5. Scripps Health
    Average Salary: $91,971
    Scripps Health provides excellent healthcare services. Their staff enjoys competitive salaries. They focus on patient care and community health.


  6. Salk Institute for Biological Studies
    Average Salary: $70,397
    The Salk Institute is a renowned research organization. It offers rewarding positions with a focus on biological sciences. Salaries are competitive.


  7. EVANS HOTELS
    Average Salary: $56,194
    Evans Hotels offers hospitality positions with good salaries. They provide quality service to guests and value their employees.


  8. CVS Health
    Average Salary: $55,352
    CVS Health is a leading healthcare company. They provide competitive salaries for their staff. They focus on health and wellness for communities.


  9. Front Porch Communities and Services
    Average Salary: $51,200
    Front Porch offers community services and competitive salaries. They aim to enhance the quality of life for residents.


  10. My Senior Health Plan
    Average Salary: $51,145
    My Senior Health Plan provides health services for seniors. They offer jobs with fair salaries. They focus on improving health outcomes for the elderly.

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

La Jolla, CA, shows a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average, particularly in housing, which stands at 277. This represents a 177% increase over the national average of 100. Other expenses, such as groceries, utilities, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous costs, also exceed the average, though to a lesser extent. For instance, groceries are 9% above the average, utilities are 2% higher, transportation costs are 15% more, healthcare is 8% higher, and miscellaneous expenses are 22% above the national standard.
Cost of living comparison graph for La Jolla, CA vs. Nationwide: housing 177% higher, groceries 9% higher, utilities 2% higher, transportation 15% higher, healthcare 8% higher, miscellaneous 22% higher.

Living in La Jolla, CA, presents a unique cost of living scenario compared to the nationwide average. To begin with, the housing index stands at 277. This means that housing costs in La Jolla are significantly higher, by 177%, compared to the national average, where the index is set at 100. For job seekers considering this coastal area, this figure indicates that they should anticipate spending nearly three times more on housing than in the average U.S. location.


Beyond housing, other expenses also present a higher financial burden. Groceries in La Jolla are 9% more expensive than the average, with an index of 109. Utilities cost 2% more at 102, while transportation expenses are 15% higher at 115. Healthcare services also see a modest increase of 8%, standing at an index of 108. Miscellaneous costs, including items like entertainment and personal care, are 22% higher, indexed at 122. Together, these figures suggest that while La Jolla offers a desirable lifestyle, potential residents should be prepared for higher living costs in several key areas.

There are 383 job openings in La Jolla, CA, today!

View Jobs in La Jolla, CA

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

Discover what it's like to work in La Jolla, CA. Learn if you need a car, explore popular employers, the job market, and the best neighborhoods to live in.
City
Overview
La Jolla, CA
383 Job Openings

Win at hiring.

Visit the help center for any questions.
Contact Support
ReadySetHire icon
©2025 • ReadySetHire