What is the average salary in San Diego, CA?
San Diego offers a variety of job opportunities with competitive salaries. The average yearly salary in San Diego is $82,358. This figure reflects the diverse economic landscape of the city. Many industries contribute to this average, including technology, healthcare, and education.
The salary distribution in San Diego shows a wide range of earnings. The top-paying jobs include roles such as software developers, who earn around $124,386 per year, and healthcare professionals, who can make up to $178,318 annually. Other high-paying sectors include finance, engineering, and management. These figures highlight the potential for career growth and financial stability in San Diego.
What are the best paying jobs in San Diego, CA?

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Psychiatrist
Average Salary: $333,863
This role involves diagnosing and treating mental health issues. Psychiatrists work in hospitals, clinics, and private practices. They collaborate with psychologists and social workers to provide comprehensive care.
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Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist
Average Salary: $329,365
These professionals administer anesthesia during surgeries. They work closely with surgeons and anesthesiologists. They ensure patients are safe and comfortable before, during, and after procedures.
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Physician
Average Salary: $270,004
Physicians diagnose and treat illnesses. They work in hospitals, clinics, and private practices. They often collaborate with other healthcare professionals to provide the best care for patients.
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General Dentist
Average Salary: $265,349
Dentists focus on oral health. They perform cleanings, fillings, and extractions. They work in private practices and dental clinics, ensuring patients maintain healthy teeth and gums.
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Primary Care Physician
Average Salary: $245,177
Primary care physicians provide general medical care. They treat a wide range of conditions and illnesses. They work in clinics and hospitals, often serving as the first point of contact for patients.
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Internal Medicine Physician
Average Salary: $233,105
These doctors specialize in adult medicine. They diagnose and treat complex medical issues. They work in hospitals and private practices, focusing on prevention and treatment of adult diseases.
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Staff Physician
Average Salary: $215,806
Staff physicians work in hospitals and clinics. They provide medical care to patients. They often collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive care.
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Regulatory Affairs Director
Average Salary: $211,343
This role involves ensuring compliance with regulations. Directors work in healthcare and pharmaceutical companies. They manage regulatory submissions and maintain compliance with industry standards.
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Pediatrician
Average Salary: $208,166
Pediatricians specialize in children's health. They provide medical care from infancy to adolescence. They work in clinics and hospitals, ensuring children receive the best care possible.
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General Counsel
Average Salary: $198,561
General counsel provides legal advice to organizations. They handle legal issues and ensure compliance with laws. They work in corporate settings, often collaborating with other executives.
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What are the best paying jobs in San Diego, CA without a degree?

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Sales Inspector
Average Salary: $75,957
This role involves inspecting sales practices. It requires keen attention to detail. Companies like local retail stores and tech firms value this skill.
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Canvasser
Average Salary: $68,012
Canvassers gather information and promote products. They work for political campaigns and local businesses. It's a great way to meet people and learn about the community.
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Concrete Finisher
Average Salary: $67,086
Concrete finishers prepare and finish concrete surfaces. They work on construction sites. This job offers steady work and good pay. Companies like construction firms hire for this role.
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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $55,704
Restaurant managers oversee daily operations. They handle staff, orders, and customer service. This job is fast-paced and rewarding. Many local eateries need skilled managers.
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Grain Elevator Operator
Average Salary: $54,334
Grain elevator operators manage grain storage and movement. They work in agricultural areas. This job is crucial for the food supply chain. Companies in the farming industry hire for this role.
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Kitchen Manager
Average Salary: $54,044
Kitchen managers supervise kitchen staff and operations. They ensure food quality and safety. This job is essential in the food service industry. Local restaurants and cafes need experienced managers.
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Arborist Climber
Average Salary: $53,923
Arborist climbers trim and care for trees. They work outdoors and in various settings. This job requires physical fitness and attention to detail. Tree care companies hire for this role.
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Journeyman Painter
Average Salary: $51,033
Journeyman painters apply paint to buildings and structures. They work on residential and commercial projects. This job offers steady work and good pay. Construction and maintenance companies hire for this role.
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Irrigation Technician
Average Salary: $49,248
Irrigation technicians install and maintain water systems. They work on farms and gardens. This job is important for agriculture. Companies in the farming industry hire for this role.
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Concrete Laborer
Average Salary: $46,782
Concrete laborers assist in concrete finishing tasks. They work on construction sites. This job offers steady work and good pay. Construction companies hire for this role.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in San Diego, CA?

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LifeStance Health
Average Salary: $205,784
LifeStance Health offers mental health services. They focus on providing quality care and support to patients.
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Apple
Average Salary: $198,189
Apple designs and sells consumer electronics, computers, and online services. They are known for their innovative products.
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PlayStation
Average Salary: $193,984
PlayStation is a video game console brand. It offers gaming systems and entertainment to gamers worldwide.
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Shield AI
Average Salary: $187,733
Shield AI develops AI technology for autonomous systems. They focus on creating advanced software for various applications.
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Intuit
Average Salary: $187,324
Intuit creates financial software for individuals and businesses. They are known for products like TurboTax and QuickBooks.
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PwC
Average Salary: $180,896
PwC is a professional services firm. They offer audit, assurance, consulting, and tax services to clients.
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Bristol Myers Squibb
Average Salary: $179,455
Bristol Myers Squibb is a pharmaceutical company. They develop and sell medicines for various health conditions.
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Avidity Biosciences
Average Salary: $176,330
Avidity Biosciences focuses on genetic medicines. They aim to treat rare diseases with innovative therapies.
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Dr. Zak Dental Care
Average Salary: $170,081
Dr. Zak Dental Care provides dental services. They focus on patient care and oral health.
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ServiceNow
Average Salary: $169,355
ServiceNow offers cloud-based software for enterprise management. They help businesses streamline their operations.
How does the cost of living in San Diego, CA compare to the national average?

San Diego, California, has a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average. The housing index in San Diego stands at 200, which is 100% higher than the national average. This means that housing costs in San Diego are twice as high as the average cost across the country. For job seekers considering a move to San Diego, this significant increase in housing costs is a crucial factor to consider.
Other expenses in San Diego also exceed the national average. Groceries cost 15% more, with an index of 115. Utilities are 5% higher, at 105. Transportation costs are 25% higher, with an index of 125. Healthcare costs are 10% above the average, at 110. Miscellaneous expenses are 20% higher, with an index of 120. These increases show that while San Diego offers many benefits, potential residents should be prepared for higher living expenses in several key areas.