What is the average salary in San Luis Obispo, CA?
San Luis Obispo, CA, offers a range of job opportunities with varying salaries. The average yearly salary in the area is around $72,510. This figure represents the midpoint of income for most positions. Understanding the salary distribution can help job seekers set realistic expectations for their career paths.
Here are some specific salary insights from different job sectors in San Luis Obispo:
- Healthcare jobs average around $33,800 annually.
- Education positions average about $48,555 yearly.
- Retail roles typically earn close to $63,309 per year.
- Real estate jobs average around $78,064 annually.
- Finance positions often earn close to $92,818 each year.
- Information technology jobs average about $107,573 per year.
- Management roles typically earn near $122,327 annually.
- Professional services average around $137,082 yearly.
- High-level executive positions earn close to $151,836 annually.
- Specialized jobs in healthcare and technology average about $166,591 per year.
- Top-tier executive roles often earn around $181,345 annually.
What are the best paying jobs in San Luis Obispo, CA?

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Psychologist
Average Salary: $267,802
This role involves helping people with their mental health. Professionals work with patients in various settings, like private practices or large healthcare systems. Some key employers include local mental health clinics and educational institutions.
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Software Engineer
Average Salary: $171,495
Software engineers design and create computer applications. This position offers a mix of coding, testing, and problem-solving. Many tech firms and startups in the region look for skilled software engineers to join their teams.
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Pharmacist
Average Salary: $154,677
Pharmacists play a key role in healthcare by ensuring patients use medication safely. They work in pharmacies and hospitals, advising customers on drug use and potential side effects. Local pharmacies and clinics are often in need of qualified pharmacists.
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Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
Average Salary: $137,886
This job involves helping people with relationship issues. Therapists meet with individuals, couples, and families to provide counseling. Many private practices and community health centers offer opportunities for licensed marriage and family therapists.
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Recreational Therapist
Average Salary: $131,384
Recreational therapists use activities to help patients improve their mental and physical health. They work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and community programs. This job often involves planning and leading various therapeutic activities.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $127,902
Registered nurses provide essential care to patients in various healthcare settings. They work in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. Many healthcare providers in the region need dedicated and compassionate registered nurses.
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Traveling Nurse
Average Salary: $126,628
Traveling nurses provide care to patients in different locations. They often work short-term assignments in various healthcare facilities. Agencies and hospitals frequently seek experienced traveling nurses for their flexibility and expertise.
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Speech Language Pathologist
Average Salary: $125,759
This role involves helping people with speech and language difficulties. Pathologists work with individuals of all ages in various settings, including schools and rehabilitation centers. Local clinics and hospitals offer many opportunities for speech language pathologists.
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Occupational Therapist
Average Salary: $121,559
Occupational therapists help patients regain skills needed for daily activities. They work in hospitals, schools, and private practices. Many healthcare facilities in the area need skilled occupational therapists to assist their patients.
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Technical Project Lead
Average Salary: $115,793
This position involves managing technical projects and teams. Project leads ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget. Many tech companies and startups in the region look for experienced project leads to guide their teams.
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What are the best paying jobs in San Luis Obispo, CA without a degree?

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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $69,819
Oversee daily operations of a restaurant. Manage staff, ensure customer satisfaction, and handle the budget. Work in a fast-paced environment. Companies like Pistachio Cafe and The Palms Restaurant offer good opportunities.
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Kitchen Team Member
Average Salary: $41,396
Assist in food preparation and cooking. Follow recipes and ensure food quality. Work in a busy kitchen. Local businesses such as Village Pub and The SLO Brew Pub provide relevant experience.
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Barista
Average Salary: $40,883
Prepare and serve coffee and other beverages. Interact with customers to take orders. Work in a welcoming environment. Job options include Blue Bottle Coffee and Peet's Coffee.
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Service Team Member
Average Salary: $39,564
Provide excellent customer service. Take orders, serve food, and ensure a pleasant dining experience. Work in a friendly setting. Try places like The Old Town Taphouse and The SLO Market.
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Server
Average Salary: $39,435
Take orders, serve food and drinks, and engage with guests. Ensure a positive dining experience. Work in a social environment. Opportunities exist at The Red Devil and The SLO Farmer's Market.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $38,942
Prepare ingredients and cook meals. Work efficiently in a fast-paced kitchen. Follow recipes and ensure food quality. Look for positions at Pistachio Cafe and Village Pub.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $38,274
Clean and maintain rooms. Ensure a clean and welcoming environment. Work in a tidy and orderly setting. Consider hotels like The Madonna Inn and The Red Devil.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $37,807
Wash dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment. Maintain a clean and efficient kitchen. Work in a busy environment. Opportunities are available at local restaurants like The Village Pub and The Palms Restaurant.
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Food Service Aide
Average Salary: $36,457
Assist in food preparation and service. Clean and maintain the kitchen. Work in a supportive environment. Try local options such as The SLO Market and Blue Bottle Coffee.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in San Luis Obispo, CA?

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TEEMA
Average Salary: $162,420
TEEMA is a real estate and property management company. They manage large properties with a focus on sustainable practices.
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Legacy Personnel Inc
Average Salary: $120,777
Legacy Personnel Inc specializes in staffing and recruiting. They connect job seekers with top companies in various industries.
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Sunrun
Average Salary: $112,425
Sunrun is a solar energy provider. They help homes and businesses switch to clean, renewable energy.
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Adventist Health
Average Salary: $102,345
Adventist Health is a healthcare provider with several hospitals and clinics in the area. They offer a wide range of medical services.
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CommonSpirit Health
Average Salary: $98,339
CommonSpirit Health operates numerous hospitals and clinics. They focus on providing quality care and improving community health.
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UCLA Health
Average Salary: $95,899
UCLA Health is part of the University of California, Los Angeles. They offer top-notch medical care and are known for their research.
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County of San Luis Obispo
Average Salary: $90,878
The County of San Luis Obispo manages public services. They work in areas like education, public safety, and infrastructure.
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California State University
Average Salary: $90,221
California State University offers a wide range of academic programs. They focus on providing quality education to students.
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Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc.
Average Salary: $90,104
Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc. works in the aerospace industry. They develop technology and systems for aviation and space.
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Cuesta College
Average Salary: $84,074
Cuesta College offers a variety of academic and vocational programs. They focus on providing affordable education to the community.
How does the cost of living in San Luis Obispo, CA compare to the national average?

San Luis Obispo, California, shows a cost of living that varies from the nationwide average, which is set at 100. Housing costs in San Luis Obispo are notably higher, standing at 200. This means housing expenses are double the national average, making it significantly more expensive for those looking to buy or rent property there. Job seekers should be aware that their housing budget may need to be considerably adjusted if they decide to relocate to this area.
In other areas, the cost of living also differs from the national average. Groceries cost 15% more, with an index of 115, while utilities are slightly above average at 5% higher with an index of 105. Transportation costs align closely with the national average, standing at 10% higher with an index of 110. Healthcare costs are slightly below the national average, with an index of 90, offering a bit of relief for those concerned about medical expenses. Miscellaneous costs, however, are 20% higher, with an index of 120. This shows that while some expenses are higher, others are lower, providing a mixed picture for potential residents.



