Salaries in La Mesa, CA

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

The average salary in La Mesa, CA is $64,794 per year.

Salaries in La Mesa, CA, offer a range of opportunities for job seekers. The average salary stands at $64,794. This figure provides a good benchmark for understanding the earning potential in the area. The highest-paying jobs can reach up to $196,540, while the lowest-paying jobs start at $33,000. This range allows for various career paths to meet different financial goals.


The salary distribution shows a clear progression. For instance, the first 10% of earners make around $33,000. As earnings increase, the 20% mark hits $47,867. By the 50% mark, salaries reach $92,469. This progression indicates that with experience and skill, higher salaries are attainable. Job seekers can aim for roles that offer higher earnings as they advance in their careers.

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

La Mesa, CA, offers a variety of high-paying jobs for skilled professionals. Among the top earners are healthcare roles such as Registered Nurses, Dental Hygienists, and Speech Language Pathologists. These positions not only provide competitive salaries but also contribute to the well-being of the community. In addition to healthcare, roles like General Manager and Behavior Analyst also offer attractive compensation packages. These jobs require specialized skills and experience, making them valuable in the local job market. Job seekers with the right qualifications can find rewarding opportunities in La Mesa.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in La Mesa, CA, highlighting Registered Nurse with the highest at $112,448 and Instructor with the lowest at $53,274.
  1. Registered Nurse
    Average Salary: $112,448
    Registered Nurses provide care to patients and help doctors with medical procedures. They work in hospitals, clinics, and care facilities. Many healthcare providers in La Mesa offer competitive salaries and benefits.
    Find Registered Nurse jobs in La Mesa, CA


  2. Dental Hygienist
    Average Salary: $111,747
    Dental Hygienists clean teeth and educate patients on oral health. They work in dental offices and clinics. Many dental practices in La Mesa value skilled hygienists and offer good pay.
    Find Dental Hygienist jobs in La Mesa, CA


  3. Speech Language Pathologist
    Average Salary: $110,467
    Speech Language Pathologists help people with speech and language issues. They work in schools, hospitals, and private practices. Many employers in La Mesa provide a supportive environment and good compensation.
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  4. Occupational Therapist
    Average Salary: $100,862
    Occupational Therapists help patients regain skills for daily activities. They work in hospitals, schools, and rehabilitation centers. Many facilities in La Mesa offer rewarding work and competitive salaries.
    Find Occupational Therapist jobs in La Mesa, CA


  5. Physical Therapist Assistant
    Average Salary: $80,651
    Physical Therapist Assistants help patients recover from injuries and illnesses. They work with physical therapists in clinics and hospitals. Many employers in La Mesa value their contributions and offer good pay.
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  6. Case Manager
    Average Salary: $74,796
    Case Managers coordinate care for patients with complex needs. They work in hospitals, clinics, and social service agencies. Many organizations in La Mesa offer supportive work environments and good salaries.
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  7. Licensed Vocational Nurse
    Average Salary: $73,469
    Licensed Vocational Nurses provide basic medical care and support to patients. They work in hospitals, clinics, and care facilities. Many employers in La Mesa value their skills and offer good compensation.
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  8. Behavior Analyst
    Average Salary: $67,400
    Behavior Analysts work with individuals to improve their behavior. They work in schools, clinics, and private practices. Many employers in La Mesa offer rewarding work and good pay.
    Find Behavior Analyst jobs in La Mesa, CA


  9. General Manager
    Average Salary: $55,995
    General Managers oversee the operations of businesses. They work in retail, hospitality, and other industries. Many employers in La Mesa offer opportunities for growth and good salaries.
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  10. Instructor
    Average Salary: $53,274
    Instructors teach students in various subjects. They work in schools, colleges, and training centers. Many educational institutions in La Mesa offer supportive work environments and good pay.
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What are the best paying jobs in La Mesa, CA without a degree?

Job seekers in La Mesa, California, can find well-paying roles without needing a degree. Opportunities in the hospitality industry offer competitive salaries. For example, a housekeeping role can pay up to $43,081 annually. Baristas and restaurant managers also earn good wages, with salaries reaching $40,852 and $40,705 respectively. These positions provide a chance to earn a solid income while gaining valuable experience. Kitchen team members, server assistants, and line cooks also offer decent pay, with salaries ranging from $31,013 to $38,851. These jobs allow individuals to start their careers with good earning potential.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in La Mesa, CA without a degree, highlighting Housekeeping with the highest at $43,081 and To Go Specialist with the lowest at $31,013.
  1. Housekeeping
    Average Salary: $43,081
    Housekeeping staff clean and maintain facilities. They work in hotels, motels, and other lodging places. They ensure guest rooms and public areas are clean and welcoming.
    Find Housekeeping jobs in La Mesa, CA


  2. Barista
    Average Salary: $40,852
    Baristas prepare and serve coffee and other beverages. They work in coffee shops and cafes. They take orders and ensure customers have a pleasant experience.
    Find Barista jobs in La Mesa, CA


  3. Restaurant Manager
    Average Salary: $40,705
    Restaurant managers oversee daily operations. They work in various dining establishments. They manage staff, handle customer service, and ensure smooth restaurant functions.
    Find Restaurant Manager jobs in La Mesa, CA


  4. Kitchen Team Member
    Average Salary: $38,851
    Kitchen team members assist in food preparation. They work in restaurants and cafes. They help cooks, ensure food is ready, and maintain kitchen cleanliness.
    Find Kitchen Team Member jobs in La Mesa, CA


  5. Server Assistant
    Average Salary: $36,792
    Server assistants help servers take care of tables. They work in dining establishments. They refill drinks, clear dishes, and assist with customer service.
    Find Server Assistant jobs in La Mesa, CA


  6. Line Cook
    Average Salary: $34,768
    Line cooks prepare food quickly. They work in busy kitchens. They follow recipes, chop ingredients, and cook meals to meet orders.
    Find Line Cook jobs in La Mesa, CA


  7. Laundry Aide
    Average Salary: $33,533
    Laundry aides help with laundry tasks. They work in hotels and motels. They sort, wash, and fold clothes, ensuring guests have clean items.
    Find Laundry Aide jobs in La Mesa, CA


  8. Dishwasher
    Average Salary: $33,018
    Dishwasher clean dishes and utensils. They work in restaurants and cafes. They wash, dry, and store items to keep the kitchen clean.
    Find Dishwasher jobs in La Mesa, CA


  9. Server
    Average Salary: $32,954
    Servers take orders and serve food. They work in dining establishments. They interact with customers, ensure they have what they need, and provide good service.
    Find Server jobs in La Mesa, CA


  10. To Go Specialist
    Average Salary: $31,013
    To Go specialists prepare food for takeout. They work in restaurants and cafes. They package orders, ensure accuracy, and handle customer requests.
    Find To Go Specialist jobs in La Mesa, CA

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

Job seekers in La Mesa, CA, have a variety of companies to consider for higher salaries. LifeStance Health leads with an average salary of $221,182, followed closely by Family Health Centers of San Diego at $121,860. Kaiser Permanente, Sharp HealthCare, and COMMUNITY CARE CENTER also offer competitive salaries, making them attractive options for those seeking well-paying jobs. Other notable employers include Country Manor La Mesa Healthcare Center, Alvarado Parkway Institute, and La Mesa Spring Valley Schools, all providing salaries above $60,000. Sodexo and MBK Senior Living round out the list, offering salaries that still exceed local averages. These companies provide a range of opportunities for professionals seeking both good pay and job satisfaction.
Graph displaying company salaries in La Mesa, CA, highlighting LifeStance Health with the highest at $221,182 and MBK Senior Living with the lowest at $41,490.
  1. LifeStance Health
    Average Salary: $221,182
    LifeStance Health offers mental health services. They focus on providing quality care to patients.


  2. Family Health Centers of San Diego
    Average Salary: $121,860
    Family Health Centers of San Diego provides healthcare services. They aim to improve the health of the community.


  3. Kaiser Permanente
    Average Salary: $98,077
    Kaiser Permanente is a healthcare organization. They offer a range of medical services to their members.


  4. Sharp HealthCare
    Average Salary: $95,112
    Sharp HealthCare is a healthcare provider. They offer various medical services and are known for their quality care.


  5. COMMUNITY CARE CENTER
    Average Salary: $68,279
    COMMUNITY CARE CENTER provides healthcare services. They focus on community health and wellness.


  6. Country Manor La Mesa Healthcare Center
    Average Salary: $67,657
    Country Manor La Mesa Healthcare Center offers senior care services. They provide a supportive environment for the elderly.


  7. Alvarado Parkway Institute
    Average Salary: $62,883
    Alvarado Parkway Institute is an educational institution. They offer various programs and courses to students.


  8. La Mesa Spring Valley Schools
    Average Salary: $62,358
    La Mesa Spring Valley Schools is a school district. They provide education to students in the area.


  9. Sodexo
    Average Salary: $48,165
    Sodexo offers food services and facilities management. They work in various sectors, including healthcare and education.


  10. MBK Senior Living
    Average Salary: $41,490
    MBK Senior Living provides senior living services. They offer a comfortable and supportive environment for seniors.

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

La Mesa, CA, has a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average. Housing costs 50% more, while groceries, utilities, and transportation are also above average. Healthcare and miscellaneous expenses are slightly higher but not as pronounced. Overall, La Mesa's cost of living index stands at 121, indicating a 21% increase over the national average.
Cost of living comparison graph for La Mesa, CA vs. Nationwide: housing 50% higher, groceries 15% higher, utilities 10% higher, transportation 20% higher, healthcare 5% higher, miscellaneous 30% higher.

The cost of living in La Mesa, California, is notably higher than the nationwide average. Housing costs in La Mesa stand at 150, which is 50% higher than the national average of 100. This significant increase reflects the higher prices for rent and home ownership in the area. Job seekers should consider these higher housing expenses when planning their budget.


Other expenses in La Mesa also exceed the national average. Groceries cost 15% more, with an index of 115. Utilities are 10% higher at 110, and transportation costs are 20% higher at 120. Healthcare costs are slightly below the average at 105, offering a small relief. Miscellaneous expenses, including entertainment and personal care, are 30% higher at 130. These figures show that while La Mesa offers many benefits, it also comes with higher living costs in several key areas.

There are 465 job openings in La Mesa, CA, today!

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

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