Salaries in San Diego, CA

Updated on Apr 14, 2025
City
Salary

What is the average salary in San Diego, CA?

The average salary in San Diego, CA is $83,636 per year.

San Diego, CA, offers a vibrant job market with competitive salaries, making it an attractive destination for professionals. The average yearly salary in the region is $83,636, reflecting a robust economic environment. The salary distribution showcases a range of opportunities, with the majority of positions falling between $33,700 and $123,586 annually. This distribution indicates a diverse job market, providing various earning potentials across different sectors. Whether you're in the early stages of your career or seeking advancement, San Diego presents numerous opportunities to achieve your financial goals.

View Jobs in San Diego, CA

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

San Diego offers a range of high-paying job opportunities, particularly in healthcare and technology sectors. Psychiatrists, general dentists, and various types of physicians top the list, reflecting the city's strong demand for medical professionals. Additionally, roles such as wireless engineers and software project managers also provide competitive salaries, making San Diego an attractive destination for career growth.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in San Diego, CA, highlighting Psychiatrist with the highest at $345,919 and Software Project Manager with the lowest at $191,333.
  1. Psychiatrist
    Average Salary: $345,919
    Specializing in mental health, psychiatrists work in hospitals, private practices, and clinics. They diagnose and treat mental illnesses, offering therapy and medication. Notable employers include Scripps Health and Kaiser Permanente.
    Find Psychiatrist jobs in San Diego, CA


  2. General Dentist
    Average Salary: $268,543
    Dentists focus on oral health, providing preventive care and treatments. They work in private practices and clinics, ensuring patients maintain healthy teeth and gums. Key employers include Sharp HealthCare and Rady Children's Hospital.
    Find General Dentist jobs in San Diego, CA


  3. Physician
    Average Salary: $263,354
    Physicians diagnose and treat a wide range of health conditions. They work in various settings, including hospitals and private practices. Major employers include UC San Diego Health and Rady Children's Hospital.
    Find Physician jobs in San Diego, CA


  4. Primary Care Physician
    Average Salary: $238,399
    Primary care physicians provide general medical care and manage chronic conditions. They work in clinics and hospitals, ensuring patients receive comprehensive health services. Notable employers include Scripps Health and Kaiser Permanente.
    Find Primary Care Physician jobs in San Diego, CA


  5. Internal Medicine Physician
    Average Salary: $226,570
    Specializing in adult medicine, internal medicine physicians diagnose and treat complex medical issues. They work in hospitals and private practices, focusing on preventive care and disease management. Key employers include UC San Diego Health and Sharp HealthCare.
    Find Internal Medicine Physician jobs in San Diego, CA


  6. Regulatory Affairs Director
    Average Salary: $203,260
    Regulatory affairs directors ensure compliance with healthcare regulations. They work in pharmaceutical companies and healthcare organizations, managing regulatory submissions and policies. Notable employers include Illumina and Biogen.
    Find Regulatory Affairs Director jobs in San Diego, CA


  7. Pediatrician
    Average Salary: $202,081
    Pediatricians focus on children's health, providing medical care from infancy through adolescence. They work in clinics and hospitals, ensuring children receive appropriate care and vaccinations. Key employers include Rady Children's Hospital and Kaiser Permanente.
    Find Pediatrician jobs in San Diego, CA


  8. Staff Physician
    Average Salary: $202,052
    Staff physicians provide medical care in hospitals and clinics. They work closely with other healthcare professionals to ensure patients receive quality care. Notable employers include UC San Diego Health and Sharp HealthCare.
    Find Staff Physician jobs in San Diego, CA


  9. Wireless Engineer
    Average Salary: $195,188
    Wireless engineers design and develop wireless communication systems. They work in tech companies, ensuring efficient and reliable wireless networks. Key employers include Qualcomm and Viasat.
    Find Wireless Engineer jobs in San Diego, CA


  10. Software Project Manager
    Average Salary: $191,333
    Software project managers oversee software development projects. They coordinate teams, manage timelines, and ensure projects meet quality standards. Notable employers include Illumina and Biogen.
    Find Software Project Manager jobs in San Diego, CA

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

San Diego offers several lucrative job opportunities that do not require a degree. Among the top-paying roles are canvassers, sales inspectors, and concrete finishers, with average salaries ranging from $42,000 to over $74,000. These positions provide a pathway to financial stability and career growth without the need for formal education.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in San Diego, CA without a degree, highlighting Canvasser with the highest at $74,697 and Laundry Aide with the lowest at $42,243.
  1. Canvasser
    Average Salary: $74,697
    Engage with the community to promote products or services. This role is ideal for those who enjoy face-to-face interactions and thrive in a dynamic environment. Companies like local businesses and political campaigns often seek canvassers.
    Find Canvasser jobs in San Diego, CA


  2. Sales Inspector
    Average Salary: $69,423
    Inspect and evaluate sales practices to ensure compliance with regulations. This position is perfect for individuals who are detail-oriented and have a knack for problem-solving. Firms in the retail and manufacturing sectors frequently hire sales inspectors.
    Find Sales Inspector jobs in San Diego, CA


  3. Concrete Finisher
    Average Salary: $67,980
    Prepare and finish concrete surfaces for construction projects. This hands-on role is suitable for those who enjoy working outdoors and have a strong attention to detail. Construction companies and general contractors often need skilled concrete finishers.
    Find Concrete Finisher jobs in San Diego, CA


  4. Restaurant Manager
    Average Salary: $55,957
    Oversee daily operations and staff in a restaurant setting. This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy leadership and have a passion for the culinary industry. Many local eateries and chain restaurants seek experienced restaurant managers.
    Find Restaurant Manager jobs in San Diego, CA


  5. Kitchen Manager
    Average Salary: $52,580
    Manage kitchen staff and ensure smooth kitchen operations. This position is perfect for those who have a strong background in cooking and enjoy managing a team. Restaurants and catering companies often hire kitchen managers.
    Find Kitchen Manager jobs in San Diego, CA


  6. Concrete Laborer
    Average Salary: $48,733
    Assist in the preparation and pouring of concrete for construction projects. This role is ideal for those who enjoy physical work and have a strong work ethic. Construction companies and general contractors frequently hire concrete laborers.
    Find Concrete Laborer jobs in San Diego, CA


  7. Irrigation Technician
    Average Salary: $47,822
    Install and maintain irrigation systems for residential and commercial properties. This position is perfect for individuals who enjoy working outdoors and have a knack for problem-solving. Landscaping companies and irrigation firms often seek skilled technicians.
    Find Irrigation Technician jobs in San Diego, CA


  8. Journeyman Painter
    Average Salary: $45,895
    Apply paint and other finishes to various surfaces. This role is ideal for those who have a keen eye for detail and enjoy working with their hands. Construction companies and painting contractors often hire journeyman painters.
    Find Journeyman Painter jobs in San Diego, CA


  9. Restaurant Crew
    Average Salary: $42,913
    Assist in various tasks within a restaurant, such as taking orders and preparing food. This position is perfect for those who enjoy a fast-paced environment and have a friendly demeanor. Many local eateries and chain restaurants seek restaurant crew members.
    Find Restaurant Crew jobs in San Diego, CA


  10. Laundry Aide
    Average Salary: $42,243
    Assist in the operation of a laundry facility, including washing and folding clothes. This role is ideal for those who enjoy routine tasks and have a strong work ethic. Hotels and laundry services often hire laundry aides.
    Find Laundry Aide jobs in San Diego, CA

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

San Diego offers a range of high-paying job opportunities across various industries. Companies like LifeStance Health, Apple, and Shield AI lead the way with average salaries exceeding $160,000, making them attractive options for job seekers in the area.
Graph displaying company salaries in San Diego, CA, highlighting LifeStance Health with the highest at $209,473 and Bristol Myers Squibb with the lowest at $158,681.
  1. LifeStance Health
    Average Salary: $209,473
    LifeStance Health is a leading mental health care provider, offering a range of services to patients. They are committed to improving mental health outcomes and providing quality care.


  2. Apple
    Average Salary: $196,993
    Apple is a global technology leader, known for its innovative products and services. They are dedicated to creating cutting-edge technology that enhances people's lives.


  3. Shield AI
    Average Salary: $181,887
    Shield AI is a pioneering company in the field of artificial intelligence and robotics. They are focused on developing advanced AI solutions for various industries.


  4. PwC
    Average Salary: $179,135
    PwC is a multinational professional services firm, offering audit, assurance, consulting, and tax services. They are committed to helping businesses succeed and grow.


  5. Intuit
    Average Salary: $175,125
    Intuit is a leading financial software company, best known for its products like TurboTax and QuickBooks. They are dedicated to empowering individuals and businesses with financial tools.


  6. Avidity Biosciences
    Average Salary: $173,751
    Avidity Biosciences is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative therapies for genetic diseases. They are committed to improving patients' lives through cutting-edge research.


  7. ServiceNow
    Average Salary: $166,564
    ServiceNow is a cloud-based software company that provides enterprise workflow solutions. They are dedicated to helping businesses streamline their operations and improve efficiency.


  8. Logic20/20
    Average Salary: $163,709
    Logic20/20 is a leading provider of cloud-based software solutions for the insurance industry. They are committed to helping insurance companies manage their operations more effectively.


  9. Qualcomm
    Average Salary: $163,628
    Qualcomm is a global technology company specializing in wireless communications and semiconductor products. They are dedicated to driving innovation in the tech industry.


  10. Bristol Myers Squibb
    Average Salary: $158,681
    Bristol Myers Squibb is a leading biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering, developing, and delivering innovative medicines. They are committed to improving patients' lives through groundbreaking research.

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

San Diego, CA, exhibits a cost of living index that is 46% higher than the nationwide average, primarily driven by elevated housing costs. Other categories like groceries and transportation also surpass the national average, contributing to the overall higher living expenses.
Cost of living comparison graph for San Diego, CA vs. Nationwide: housing 86% higher, groceries 15% higher, utilities 5% higher, transportation 18% higher, healthcare 6% lower, miscellaneous 11% higher.

San Diego, California, presents a cost of living that is notably higher than the nationwide average, which is indexed at 100. Housing costs in San Diego stand at 186, indicating that residents pay nearly double the national average for housing. This significant increase can be a major consideration for job seekers evaluating relocation options. Groceries, utilities, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous expenses also exceed the national average, though not as dramatically. Groceries, for example, are 15% higher, while utilities and transportation costs are 5% and 18% higher, respectively. Healthcare costs are slightly below the national average at 94, offering a small reprieve for those concerned about medical expenses. Miscellaneous costs are 11% above the average, reflecting the overall trend of higher living expenses in San Diego. These figures highlight the importance of a thorough financial assessment when considering a move to this vibrant city.

Compare Salaries

What are other cities like?
Compare different cities.
Select a city
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
a hand paying employees
Pasadena, CA
Pasadena, CA, exhibits a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average, with an overall index of 121. This indicates that living expenses in Pasadena are 21% greater than the national average.
Learn more
Pasadena, TX
Pasadena, TX, boasts a cost of living index that is 94.4% of the nationwide average, making it a relatively affordable place to live. This index reflects a balanced distribution across various categories, including housing, groceries, and utilities, offering a cost-effective living option for professionals.
Learn more
Pearland, TX
Pearland, TX, presents a cost of living index that is 98% of the nationwide average, indicating a slightly lower cost of living. This makes it an attractive option for those seeking a balance between affordability and quality of life.
Learn more
Pembroke Pines, FL
Pembroke Pines, FL, exhibits a cost of living index that is 10% higher than the nationwide average, primarily driven by elevated housing costs. Other categories like groceries and transportation also slightly exceed the national average, while utilities and healthcare remain close to it.
Learn more
Pflugerville, TX
Pflugerville, TX, presents a cost of living index that is 95% of the nationwide average, indicating a slightly lower overall cost of living. This makes it an attractive option for those seeking a balance between affordability and quality of life.
Learn more
Pinellas Park, FL
Pinellas Park, FL, boasts a cost of living index that is 97% of the nationwide average, reflecting a slightly lower overall cost of living. Notably, the housing and utilities sectors contribute to this favorable comparison, with indices of 95% and 96%, respectively.
Learn more
Plano, TX
Plano, TX, exhibits a cost of living index of 105, which is 5% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This suggests that overall expenses in Plano are slightly above the national standard.
Learn more
Plantation, FL
Plantation, FL, exhibits a cost of living index that is 12% higher than the nationwide average, primarily driven by elevated housing costs. Other categories like groceries and transportation also slightly exceed the national average, while utilities and healthcare remain relatively close to it.
Learn more
Pomona, CA
Pomona, CA, exhibits a cost of living index that is 52% higher than the nationwide average, primarily driven by elevated housing costs. Other categories like groceries and utilities also show slight increases, while healthcare costs remain below the national average.
Learn more
Pompano Beach, FL
Pompano Beach, FL, exhibits a cost of living index that is 10% higher than the nationwide average, primarily driven by elevated housing costs. Other categories like groceries and transportation also surpass the national average, while utilities and healthcare remain slightly below.
Learn more
Puyallup, WA
Puyallup, WA, exhibits a cost of living index that is 10% higher than the nationwide average, primarily driven by elevated housing costs. Other categories like groceries and miscellaneous expenses also surpass the national average, while utilities and transportation remain relatively close to the benchmark.
Learn more
Quincy, MA
Quincy, MA, exhibits a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average, with an overall index of 125%. This indicates that residents can expect to spend 25% more across various living expenses.
Learn more
Rancho Cordova, CA
The cost of living index in Rancho Cordova, CA, stands at 115%, surpassing the nationwide average by 15%. This indicates that living expenses in Rancho Cordova are generally higher than the national average.
Learn more
Redmond, WA
Redmond, WA, exhibits a cost of living index that is 45% higher than the nationwide average, primarily driven by elevated housing costs. Other categories such as groceries and miscellaneous expenses also surpass the national average, though to a lesser extent.
Learn more
Renton, WA
The cost of living index in Renton, WA, stands at 120, which is 20% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This elevated index reflects higher expenses in various sectors, including housing and healthcare.
Learn more
Richardson, TX
The cost of living index in Richardson, TX, stands at 105, which is 5% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This indicates that overall expenses in Richardson are slightly above the national average.
Learn more
Riverside, CA
Riverside, CA, exhibits a cost of living index that is 23% higher than the nationwide average, primarily driven by elevated housing costs. This makes Riverside a noteworthy location for job seekers considering the overall living expenses.
Learn more
Roseville, CA
Roseville, CA, exhibits a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average, with a cost of living index of 128. This indicates that living expenses in Roseville are 28% above the national average.
Learn more
Round Rock, TX
The cost of living index in Round Rock, TX, stands at 101, slightly above the nationwide average of 100. Housing, groceries, and healthcare costs are notably higher, while utilities and transportation costs are relatively lower.
Learn more
Sacramento, CA
Sacramento, CA, exhibits a cost of living index that is 10% higher than the nationwide average, primarily driven by elevated housing costs. Despite this, other categories like groceries and utilities remain relatively close to the national average.
Learn more
Sammamish, WA
Sammamish, WA, exhibits a cost of living index that is 72% higher than the nationwide average, primarily driven by a 72% increase in housing costs. Other categories like groceries and utilities also show above-average expenses, making it a significant consideration for job seekers.
Learn more
San Antonio, TX
San Antonio, TX, boasts a cost of living index that is 92% of the nationwide average, making it a more affordable option for many professional job seekers. This index reflects lower housing costs and competitive prices across other essential categories.
Learn more
San Jose, CA
San Jose, CA, exhibits a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average, with an overall index of 139.8. This represents a 39.8% increase over the national average of 100.
Learn more
San Marcos, CA
San Marcos, CA, exhibits a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average, with an overall index of 118. Housing costs notably stand at 62% above the national average, making it a significant factor in the city's elevated cost of living.
Learn more
San Marcos, TX
San Marcos, TX, boasts a cost of living index that is 94% of the nationwide average, reflecting a generally affordable living environment. This index, derived from housing, groceries, utilities, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous expenses, positions San Marcos as a competitive choice for cost-conscious professionals.
Learn more
Sanford, FL
Sanford, FL, boasts a cost of living index that is 95% of the nationwide average, indicating a slightly lower cost of living in this area. This makes Sanford an attractive option for those seeking a more affordable lifestyle without compromising on quality.
Learn more
Santa Clara, CA
Santa Clara, CA, boasts a cost of living index that is 189.9% of the nationwide average, reflecting significantly higher expenses, particularly in housing. This elevated index underscores the importance of considering these costs when planning a move to the area.
Learn more
Santa Clarita, CA
Santa Clarita, CA, exhibits a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average, with an overall index of 116. This indicates that living expenses in Santa Clarita are 16% above the national average.
Learn more
Schertz, TX
Schertz, TX, boasts a cost of living index that is 96% of the nationwide average, making it a slightly more affordable option for professional job seekers. Notably, housing costs in Schertz are 5% below the national average, offering a potential advantage for those relocating.
Learn more
Seattle, WA
Seattle, WA, exhibits a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average, with an overall index of 128. This indicates that living expenses in Seattle are approximately 28% greater than the national average.
Learn more
Shoreline, WA
Shoreline, WA, exhibits a cost of living index that is 165% of the nationwide average in housing, reflecting a significant premium. Other categories like groceries and transportation also surpass the average, with indices at 110% and 120%, respectively.
Learn more
Somerville, MA
Somerville, MA, exhibits a cost of living index that is 17.3% higher than the nationwide average, primarily driven by elevated housing costs. Other categories like groceries and utilities remain close to the national average, making Somerville a competitive option for those prioritizing specific living expenses.
Learn more
Spokane Valley, WA
Spokane Valley, WA, presents a cost of living index of 98, which is slightly below the nationwide average of 100. This indicates that living expenses in Spokane Valley are generally 2% lower than the national average.
Learn more
Spokane, WA
Spokane, WA, presents a cost of living index that is 90% of the nationwide average, indicating a relatively affordable living environment for job seekers. This index reflects lower costs in housing and miscellaneous expenses, making it an attractive option for those seeking a balanced lifestyle.
Learn more
Springfield, MA
Springfield, MA, boasts a cost of living index that is 91% of the nationwide average, indicating a relatively affordable living environment for professional job seekers. Notably, housing costs are 22% below the national average, making it an attractive option for those seeking budget-friendly housing.
Learn more
Sugar Land, TX
The cost of living index in Sugar Land, TX, stands at 99, slightly below the nationwide average of 100. This indicates that living expenses in Sugar Land are nearly on par with the national average.
Learn more
Sunnyvale, CA
Sunnyvale, CA, exhibits a significantly higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average, with an overall index of 165. This represents a 65% increase over the national benchmark of 100.
Learn more
Tacoma, WA
Tacoma, WA, exhibits a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average, with an overall index of 110. This indicates that living expenses in Tacoma are 10% above the national average.
Learn more
Tallahassee, FL
The cost of living index in Tallahassee, FL, stands at 91, which is 1% below the nationwide average of 100. This slight decrease suggests that living expenses in Tallahassee are marginally more affordable than the average American city.
Learn more
Tampa, FL
Tampa, FL, boasts a cost of living index that is 96% of the nationwide average, making it a relatively affordable place to live. Housing, groceries, and miscellaneous costs are slightly below the national average, while transportation costs are slightly above.
Learn more
The Colony, TX
The Colony, TX, boasts a cost of living index of 95, which is 5% lower than the nationwide average of 100. This makes it an attractive option for those seeking a more affordable living environment.
Learn more
The Woodlands, TX
The Woodlands, TX, exhibits a cost of living index that is 10% higher than the nationwide average, primarily driven by housing costs. Other categories like groceries and transportation remain slightly below the national average.
Learn more
Torrance, CA
The cost of living index in Torrance, CA, stands at 138, surpassing the nationwide average of 100. This indicates that living expenses in Torrance are 38% higher than the national average.
Learn more
Tukwila, WA
Tukwila, WA, exhibits a cost of living index that is 34% higher than the nationwide average in housing, while other categories like groceries and healthcare remain relatively close to the national average, making it a balanced consideration for job seekers.
Learn more
Vancouver, WA
Vancouver, WA's cost of living index stands at 98, slightly below the nationwide average of 100. This indicates that living expenses in Vancouver are generally 2% less than the national average.
Learn more
Vista, CA
The cost of living index in Vista, CA, stands at 124, which is 24% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This elevated index reflects higher expenses, particularly in housing, which is 79% above the national average.
Learn more
Westfield, MA
Westfield, MA, presents a cost of living index that is 98% of the nationwide average, indicating a slightly lower overall cost of living. Housing and miscellaneous expenses are notably lower, while utilities and healthcare costs are marginally higher.
Learn more
Weston, FL
Weston, FL, exhibits a cost of living index that is 15% higher than the nationwide average, primarily driven by elevated housing costs. Other categories like groceries and transportation also show modest increases, while utilities and healthcare remain close to the national average.
Learn more
Worcester, MA
Worcester, MA, presents a cost of living index that is 99% of the nationwide average, indicating a slightly lower cost of living in most areas. Notably, housing and utilities are below the national average, while groceries and transportation exceed it.
Learn more

There are 13,331 job openings in San Diego, CA, today!

Take a deeper dive into the job market in San Diego, CA

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

City
Overview
San Diego, CA
13,331 job openings