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What is the average salary in San Diego, CA?

The average salary in San Diego, CA is $84,379 per year.

San Diego, CA, offers a diverse job market with competitive salaries across various industries. Professionals can expect an average yearly salary of $84,379. Key sectors with notable salary distributions include technology, healthcare, and finance. These industries provide some of the highest-paying job opportunities in the region.


Here are some average salaries by industry:

  • Technology: $107,664
  • Healthcare: $89,373
  • Finance: $125,955
Exploring job opportunities in these sectors can help job seekers find roles that match their skills and career goals.

View jobs in San Diego, CA

What are the best paying jobs in San Diego, CA?

San Diego offers a variety of high-paying job opportunities for skilled professionals. Top roles include psychiatrists and certified registered nurse anesthetists, both with average salaries exceeding $340,000. These jobs demand specialized training but offer excellent compensation and benefits. Physicians and nurses in specific fields also enjoy high earnings, reflecting the demand for specialized healthcare in the region. For those in technical and legal fields, positions like wireless engineers and general counsels provide substantial pay. Wireless engineers can earn nearly $200,000, while general counsels benefit from salaries over $200,000. These roles require expertise and experience, but they offer rewarding career paths. With strong demand in these sectors, San Diego presents a favorable environment for job seekers seeking top-tier salaries.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in San Diego, CA, highlighting Psychiatrist with the highest at $340,910 and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse with the lowest at $191,507.
  1. Psychiatrist
    Average Salary: $340,910
    Deliver mental health care in various settings. Work with individuals, families, or groups. Engage with top clinics and universities.
    Find Psychiatrist jobs in San Diego, CA


  2. Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist
    Average Salary: $340,710
    Provide anesthesia care in hospitals and surgical centers. Work alongside surgeons and anesthesiologists. Join leading healthcare institutions.
    Find Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist jobs in San Diego, CA


  3. Physician
    Average Salary: $278,714
    Diagnose and treat patients. Practice in hospitals, clinics, and private practices. Collaborate with other healthcare professionals.
    Find Physician jobs in San Diego, CA


  4. Primary Care Physician
    Average Salary: $258,433
    Offer general medical care to patients. Work in clinics and hospitals. Build long-term relationships with patients.
    Find Primary Care Physician jobs in San Diego, CA


  5. General Dentist
    Average Salary: $257,238
    Provide dental care and treatments. Work in private practices and clinics. Focus on oral health and hygiene.
    Find General Dentist jobs in San Diego, CA


  6. Internal Medicine Physician
    Average Salary: $231,691
    Diagnose and treat adult diseases. Work in hospitals and private practices. Specialize in complex medical cases.
    Find Internal Medicine Physician jobs in San Diego, CA


  7. Pediatrician
    Average Salary: $210,790
    Provide medical care to children. Work in hospitals and clinics. Focus on growth, development, and preventive care.
    Find Pediatrician jobs in San Diego, CA


  8. General Counsel
    Average Salary: $202,803
    Offer legal advice to organizations. Work in corporate settings. Manage legal risks and compliance.
    Find General Counsel jobs in San Diego, CA


  9. Wireless Engineer
    Average Salary: $199,513
    Design and develop wireless communication systems. Work in tech companies. Innovate in telecommunications and networking.
    Find Wireless Engineer jobs in San Diego, CA


  10. Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse
    Average Salary: $191,507
    Provide care to patients with mental health issues. Work in hospitals and clinics. Collaborate with psychiatrists and other healthcare providers.
    Find Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse jobs in San Diego, CA

What are the best paying jobs in San Diego, CA without a degree?

In San Diego, California, a range of high-paying jobs do not require a college degree. Sales inspectors lead the list with an average salary of $84,630. Other notable positions include concrete finishers and restaurant managers, both offering salaries above $53,000 annually. These roles provide excellent opportunities for those looking to earn a good income without the need for a degree.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in San Diego, CA without a degree, highlighting Sales Inspector with the highest at $84,630 and Laundry Aide with the lowest at $43,873.
  1. Sales Inspector
    Average Salary: $84,630
    They review and ensure that businesses follow sales tax regulations. Inspectors often work for the state or local government. They travel to businesses to collect information and conduct audits. A strong understanding of sales tax laws and attention to detail are key.
    Find Sales Inspector jobs in San Diego, CA


  2. Concrete Finisher
    Average Salary: $67,116
    They prepare concrete for buildings and other structures. These workers spread and smooth the concrete, then they shape and finish it. They may use tools to smooth the surface. A good eye for detail and physical stamina are essential in this role. Many work for construction companies in the area.
    Find Concrete Finisher jobs in San Diego, CA


  3. Restaurant Manager
    Average Salary: $57,418
    They oversee the daily operations of a restaurant. Managers handle staff, schedules, and customer service. They work closely with the kitchen staff to ensure smooth service. Strong communication skills and a passion for food service are important. Many opportunities exist with local eateries and chains.
    Find Restaurant Manager jobs in San Diego, CA


  4. Canvasser
    Average Salary: $55,748
    They gather opinions and gather data for surveys. Canvassers approach people to ask questions and collect information. They often work for market research firms or political campaigns. Good communication skills and the ability to interact with people are crucial. These roles can be found with various research companies.
    Find Canvasser jobs in San Diego, CA


  5. Irrigation Technician
    Average Salary: $53,425
    They install and maintain irrigation systems. Technicians work on systems for both residential and commercial properties. They ensure that the systems function correctly and efficiently. Knowledge of water systems and problem-solving skills are necessary. Many work for landscaping and irrigation companies.
    Find Irrigation Technician jobs in San Diego, CA


  6. Kitchen Manager
    Average Salary: $53,358
    They handle kitchen staff and ensure smooth food preparation. Managers oversee daily operations, manage kitchen staff, and handle inventory. They work closely with the front-of-house team to ensure a seamless dining experience. Strong organizational skills and a love for cooking are important. Opportunities exist with many local restaurants.
    Find Kitchen Manager jobs in San Diego, CA


  7. Grain Elevator Operator
    Average Salary: $53,258
    They operate machines that move and store grains. Operators use control panels to direct the flow of grain. They ensure that the grains are stored safely and efficiently. Knowledge of machinery and safety protocols are key. These workers often find employment with agricultural companies.
    Find Grain Elevator Operator jobs in San Diego, CA


  8. Concrete Laborer
    Average Salary: $49,347
    They assist in the preparation and pouring of concrete. Laborers help to mix and pour the concrete, then they smooth and finish the surface. They work alongside experienced concrete workers. Physical strength and attention to detail are important. Many opportunities exist with construction firms.
    Find Concrete Laborer jobs in San Diego, CA


  9. Restaurant Crew
    Average Salary: $46,066
    They handle various tasks to keep the restaurant running smoothly. Crew members take orders, serve food, and clean tables. They may also help with food preparation. Strong customer service skills and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are essential. Many local restaurants offer these positions.
    Find Restaurant Crew jobs in San Diego, CA


  10. Laundry Aide
    Average Salary: $43,873
    They help with the cleaning and maintenance of laundry facilities. Aides sort, wash, and fold clothes. They also ensure that the equipment is clean and in good working order. Attention to detail and a strong work ethic are important. These positions are available in hotels, hospitals, and commercial laundries.
    Find Laundry Aide jobs in San Diego, CA

Which companies offer the top salaries in San Diego, CA?

Job seekers in San Diego, CA, can find top-paying companies that offer competitive salaries. Arm leads the pack with an average salary of $241,568, making it a prime choice for those looking to maximize their earnings. Other notable employers include LifeStance Health, Apple, and PlayStation, all of which provide salaries over $190,000 on average. Companies like Intuit, Google, and Shield AI also offer attractive compensation packages, with average salaries exceeding $190,000. Bristol Myers Squibb, PwC, and Healthcare Staffing Professionals, Inc. further round out the list of high-paying employers in the area. These organizations show a commitment to rewarding their employees with above-average salaries.
Graph displaying company salaries in San Diego, CA, highlighting Arm with the highest at $241,568 and Healthcare Staffing Professionals, Inc. with the lowest at $183,017.
  1. Arm
    Average Salary: $241,568
    Arm is a leading technology company that designs CPU architectures, software, and services. They work with a wide range of clients, from mobile device makers to data centers.


  2. LifeStance Health
    Average Salary: $205,694
    LifeStance Health is a mental health care company. They offer a wide range of services, from individual therapy to medication management.


  3. Apple
    Average Salary: $199,068
    Apple is a well-known technology company. They design and manufacture consumer electronics, computers, and mobile devices. Their products are popular all over the world.


  4. PlayStation
    Average Salary: $197,063
    PlayStation is a gaming company. They develop and publish video games and accessories. They are best known for their line of PlayStation gaming consoles.


  5. Intuit
    Average Salary: $193,058
    Intuit is a company that makes financial software. Their best-known products are TurboTax and QuickBooks. They aim to make financial management easier and more accessible.


  6. Google
    Average Salary: $190,088
    Google is a global technology leader. They offer a wide range of products and services, from search engines to cloud computing.


  7. Shield AI
    Average Salary: $183,660
    Shield AI is a tech company that develops software for autonomous systems. They specialize in AI and robotics, with a focus on defense and commercial applications.


  8. Bristol Myers Squibb
    Average Salary: $183,286
    Bristol Myers Squibb is a pharmaceutical company. They develop and sell medicines to treat a wide range of health conditions.


  9. PwC
    Average Salary: $183,262
    PwC is a global professional services firm. They offer audit, tax, and consulting services to businesses and individuals.


  10. Healthcare Staffing Professionals, Inc.
    Average Salary: $183,017
    Healthcare Staffing Professionals, Inc. is a staffing agency. They help healthcare facilities find qualified and experienced staff.

How does the cost of living in San Diego, CA compare to the national average?

San Diego, CA, exhibits a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average. According to recent data, the overall cost of living index in San Diego stands at 133, which is 33% above the national average of 100. This elevated cost is primarily driven by housing costs, which are 85% higher than the average. Specifically, housing costs account for a significant portion of this increase, with an index of 185. Groceries and transportation also contribute to this higher cost, with indexes of 115 and 120, respectively. These figures highlight the importance for job seekers to consider these factors when planning a move to San Diego.
Cost of living comparison graph for San Diego, CA vs. Nationwide: housing 85% higher, groceries 15% higher, utilities 8% higher, transportation 20% higher, healthcare 2% higher, miscellaneous 10% higher.

San Diego, CA, has a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average. The cost of living index for San Diego stands at 137, which is 37% higher than the national average, set at 100. Housing costs in San Diego are particularly high, with an index of 185, showing an 85% increase over the average. This means housing alone is significantly more expensive for residents of San Diego.


Other expenses also show a notable increase. Groceries, for instance, have a cost of living index of 115, meaning they are 15% more expensive than the national average. Utilities in San Diego, with an index of 108, reflect an 8% higher cost. Transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous expenses also rise above the national average, each with their unique index numbers. These additional expenses contribute to the overall higher cost of living in San Diego.

There are 10,968 job openings in San Diego, CA, today!

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San Diego, CA
10,968 Job Openings