What is the average salary in San Luis Obispo, CA?
San Luis Obispo, CA, offers a range of salaries across different industries. The average yearly salary in the area is $70,109. This figure reflects the diverse job market and the opportunities available for professionals. The salary distribution shows a mix of lower and higher-paying jobs, indicating a balanced economic landscape.
The salary distribution in San Luis Obispo includes:
- 39.02% earn around $33,000
- 16.58% earn around $48,182
- 9.75% earn around $63,364
- 6.61% earn around $78,545
- 5.92% earn around $93,727
- 6.41% earn around $108,909
- 4.54% earn around $124,091
- 2.63% earn around $139,273
- 1.71% earn around $154,455
- 1.22% earn around $169,636
- 0.62% earn around $184,818
- Top earners make up to $200,000
What are the best paying jobs in San Luis Obispo, CA?

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Psychologist
Average Salary: $280,002
Psychologists work in various settings, including schools and private practices. They help individuals cope with mental health issues. In San Luis Obispo, opportunities exist with local clinics and educational institutions.
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Software Engineer
Average Salary: $153,554
Software engineers design and develop applications. They work for tech companies and startups. In San Luis Obispo, they collaborate with local businesses to create innovative solutions.
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Pharmacist
Average Salary: $147,401
Pharmacists dispense medications and advise patients. They work in pharmacies and hospitals. In San Luis Obispo, they ensure the safe use of medications for the community.
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Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
Average Salary: $138,740
Therapists help families and couples resolve conflicts. They work in private practices and community centers. In San Luis Obispo, they provide support to diverse populations.
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Recreational Therapist
Average Salary: $128,157
Therapists use recreational activities to improve patients' well-being. They work in hospitals and rehabilitation centers. In San Luis Obispo, they help patients recover through engaging activities.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $124,553
Nurses provide care to patients in hospitals and clinics. They work in various departments. In San Luis Obispo, they ensure high-quality care for the community.
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Dental Hygienist
Average Salary: $123,966
Hygienists clean teeth and educate patients on oral care. They work in dental offices. In San Luis Obispo, they help maintain the community's dental health.
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Traveling Nurse
Average Salary: $118,386
Traveling nurses work in different locations, providing care. They work in hospitals and clinics. In San Luis Obispo, they offer flexibility and diverse experiences.
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Speech Language Pathologist
Average Salary: $116,154
Pathologists help patients with speech and language disorders. They work in schools and clinics. In San Luis Obispo, they improve communication skills for individuals.
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Transportation Engineer
Average Salary: $112,826
Engineers design and improve transportation systems. They work for government agencies and private firms. In San Luis Obispo, they focus on creating efficient and safe transportation solutions.
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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: $69,455
Manage daily operations of a restaurant. Oversee staff, ensure customer satisfaction, and handle finances. Work at establishments like The Hitching Post or Madonna Inn.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $39,674
Clean and maintain rooms in hotels and motels. Ensure a comfortable environment for guests. Opportunities exist at places like The Madonna Inn and various local hotels.
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Barista
Average Salary: $39,339
Prepare and serve coffee and other beverages. Interact with customers and manage inventory. Work at coffee shops like Blue Bottle Coffee or local cafes.
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Kitchen Team Member
Average Salary: $38,536
Assist in food preparation and cooking. Work in a fast-paced environment. Opportunities are available at restaurants like The Hitching Post or local eateries.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $37,696
Prepare ingredients and cook food in a commercial kitchen. Work under pressure to meet deadlines. Positions can be found at restaurants like The Hitching Post or local diners.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $37,337
Clean dishes and utensils. Maintain a clean kitchen environment. Work at restaurants like The Hitching Post or local eateries.
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Server
Average Salary: $35,961
Take orders and serve food and drinks to customers. Ensure a pleasant dining experience. Opportunities exist at restaurants like The Hitching Post or local cafes.
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Food Service Aide
Average Salary: $35,337
Assist with food preparation and service. Help maintain cleanliness and organization. Work at restaurants like The Hitching Post or local eateries.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in San Luis Obispo, CA?

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Edwards Construction Group
Average Salary: $112,058
Edwards Construction Group is a leading construction company known for its quality projects and commitment to safety. They offer competitive salaries and benefits.
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RICK ENGINEERING COMPANY
Average Salary: $108,927
RICK ENGINEERING COMPANY provides engineering services with a focus on innovation and excellence. They offer attractive compensation packages.
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Sunrun
Average Salary: $107,977
Sunrun is a solar energy company that aims to make clean energy accessible. They offer good salaries and a supportive work environment.
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CommonSpirit Health
Average Salary: $95,219
CommonSpirit Health is a leading healthcare provider dedicated to improving the health of people. They offer competitive pay and benefits.
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County of San Luis Obispo
Average Salary: $89,277
The County of San Luis Obispo offers a variety of jobs in public service. They provide stable employment and good benefits.
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Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc.
Average Salary: $84,466
Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc. specializes in aerospace engineering and technology. They offer solid salaries and career growth opportunities.
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California State University
Average Salary: $83,804
California State University offers a range of educational services. They provide competitive salaries and a supportive work environment.
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Trust Automation
Average Salary: $82,857
Trust Automation provides automation solutions for various industries. They offer good salaries and benefits.
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California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo
Average Salary: $81,328
California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo offers higher education with a focus on practical skills. They provide competitive pay and benefits.
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Cuesta College
Average Salary: $79,707
Cuesta College offers community college education. They provide good salaries and a supportive work environment.
How does the cost of living in San Luis Obispo, CA compare to the national average?

San Luis Obispo, California, has a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average. The housing index in San Luis Obispo stands at 196, which is 96% higher than the national average. This means that housing costs in San Luis Obispo are nearly double the cost of housing in other areas across the country. For job seekers considering this area, it is important to budget for higher housing expenses.
Other expenses in San Luis Obispo also exceed the national average. The grocery index is 118, which is 18% higher than the average. Utilities are 105, or 5% higher. Transportation costs are slightly above average at 102, which is 2% higher. Healthcare costs are on par with the national average at 102, while miscellaneous costs are 20% higher at 120. These factors combine to make San Luis Obispo a place where living costs are significantly higher than in many other parts of the country.