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 $81,948. This figure reflects a diverse job market with many high-paying sectors.
Some of the top-paying jobs in San Diego include:
- Software Developers: $124,500
- Medical Doctors: $142,500
- Financial Managers: $160,500
- Marketing Managers: $178,500
- Chief Executives: $196,500
These roles show that San Diego has a strong demand for skilled professionals in various industries. Job seekers can find rewarding career paths with good pay in this vibrant city.
What are the best paying jobs in San Diego, CA?

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Psychiatrist
Average Salary: $333,452
Psychiatrists diagnose and treat mental health conditions. They work in hospitals, clinics, and private practices. Many psychiatrists collaborate with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care.
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Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist
Average Salary: $329,406
These professionals administer anesthesia to patients. They work in hospitals, surgical centers, and private practices. They collaborate closely with surgeons and anesthesiologists to ensure patient safety.
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Physician
Average Salary: $269,100
Physicians diagnose and treat a wide range of health conditions. They work in hospitals, clinics, and private practices. They often collaborate with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care.
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General Dentist
Average Salary: $265,720
Dentists provide oral health care. They work in private practices, clinics, and hospitals. They perform routine check-ups, cleanings, and various dental procedures.
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Primary Care Physician
Average Salary: $245,040
Primary care physicians provide general medical care. They work in clinics and private practices. They manage patients' overall health and refer them to specialists when needed.
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Internal Medicine Physician
Average Salary: $233,708
These physicians specialize in adult medicine. They work in hospitals, clinics, and private practices. They diagnose and treat complex medical conditions.
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Staff Physician
Average Salary: $212,219
Staff physicians work in hospitals and clinics. They provide medical care to patients. They often collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure quality care.
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Regulatory Affairs Director
Average Salary: $207,567
Regulatory affairs directors ensure compliance with laws and regulations. They work in healthcare, biotech, and pharmaceutical companies. They manage regulatory submissions and liaise with regulatory agencies.
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Pediatrician
Average Salary: $207,277
Pediatricians specialize in children's health. They work in clinics and hospitals. They provide routine check-ups, vaccinations, and treatment for various conditions.
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General Counsel
Average Salary: $199,277
General counsels provide legal advice to organizations. They work in corporate, nonprofit, and legal sectors. They handle legal matters, contracts, and compliance issues.
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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: $74,375
Sales inspectors work for companies like Qualcomm and work in the tech industry. They ensure products meet quality standards. They inspect products and provide feedback to improve quality.
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Canvasser
Average Salary: $69,012
Canvassers visit homes and businesses to promote products and services. They work for companies like Cox Communications. They gather information and feedback from customers.
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Concrete Finisher
Average Salary: $67,130
Concrete finishers work on construction sites. They prepare and finish concrete surfaces. They work for companies like Swinerton and Clark Construction. They ensure the quality of concrete work.
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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $55,916
Restaurant managers oversee daily operations. They work for restaurants like The Fish Market. They manage staff, handle customer service, and ensure smooth operations.
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Grain Elevator Operator
Average Salary: $54,334
Grain elevator operators work at facilities like Cargill. They handle the loading and unloading of grain. They ensure the safe and efficient operation of equipment.
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Kitchen Manager
Average Salary: $54,143
Kitchen managers oversee kitchen staff and operations. They work for restaurants like The Fish Market. They ensure food quality, manage inventory, and maintain kitchen standards.
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Arborist Climber
Average Salary: $53,923
Arborist climbers work for companies like Davey Tree. They climb trees to trim and remove branches. They ensure the health and safety of trees in urban areas.
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Irrigation Technician
Average Salary: $49,241
Irrigation technicians work for companies like Aquatrols. They install and maintain irrigation systems. They ensure efficient water use for landscaping and agriculture.
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Concrete Laborer
Average Salary: $47,278
Concrete laborers assist concrete finishers. They work for companies like Swinerton and Clark Construction. They prepare materials and help with concrete pouring.
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Journeyman Painter
Average Salary: $46,909
Journeyman painters work for companies like Sherwin-Williams. They apply paint to walls and ceilings. They ensure a smooth and even finish for residential and commercial projects.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in San Diego, CA?

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LifeStance Health
Average Salary: $208,214
LifeStance Health offers mental health services. It is known for its supportive work environment and competitive pay.
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Apple
Average Salary: $197,845
Apple designs and sells consumer electronics. It is a leading tech company with a strong reputation.
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PlayStation
Average Salary: $196,760
PlayStation is a video game console and service. It is part of Sony and offers exciting opportunities in gaming.
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Shield AI
Average Salary: $187,563
Shield AI develops AI for military and commercial applications. It is a growing company with innovative projects.
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Intuit
Average Salary: $186,858
Intuit creates financial software like TurboTax. It is a well-known company with a strong focus on technology.
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PwC
Average Salary: $179,941
PwC is a global consulting firm. It offers many opportunities in accounting and advisory services.
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Bristol Myers Squibb
Average Salary: $176,817
Bristol Myers Squibb is a pharmaceutical company. It develops medicines for various health conditions.
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Avidity Biosciences
Average Salary: $175,473
Avidity Biosciences focuses on genetic medicines. It is a growing biotech company with innovative research.
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Burns & McDonnell
Average Salary: $170,144
Burns & McDonnell is an engineering firm. It works on infrastructure projects across many industries.
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ServiceNow
Average Salary: $169,333
ServiceNow provides cloud-based software. It is a leading company in IT service management.
How does the cost of living in San Diego, CA compare to the national average?

San Diego, CA, has a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average, which is set at 100. Housing costs in San Diego are notably higher, with an index of 180. This means housing expenses are 80% more than the national average. Job seekers should be aware that finding affordable housing may be a challenge in this area.
Other expenses, such as groceries and utilities, are also above the national average. Groceries have a cost of living index of 103, which is 3% higher. Utilities, with an index of 107, are 7% more expensive. While these increases are significant, they are not as steep as the housing costs. Transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous expenses also show slight increases, with indices of 115, 110, and 105, respectively. These are 15%, 10%, and 5% higher than the national average. Overall, San Diego offers a vibrant lifestyle but comes with higher living expenses.