What is the average salary in San Mateo, CA?
Job seekers in San Mateo, CA, can expect competitive salaries across various sectors. The average yearly salary stands at $105,750. This figure reflects a robust job market with numerous opportunities in high-paying industries. The distribution of salaries shows a concentration of earnings, with some roles offering significantly higher pay.
The salary distribution reveals several key points. For example, 37.17% of earners make between $37,200 and $61,613 annually. This range indicates a healthy portion of the workforce enjoys a good income. In contrast, the top 10% of earners make between $208,092 and $305,745 yearly. These figures highlight the potential for career growth and advancement in San Mateo. Exploring roles in top-paying sectors could offer substantial financial rewards.
What are the best paying jobs in San Mateo, CA?

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Machine Learning Engineer
Average Salary: $247,787
These professionals develop and implement machine learning models. They work with tech giants like Google and Facebook to improve their services. Their role is to analyze large data sets and create algorithms.
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Data Scientist
Average Salary: $239,443
Data Scientists analyze and interpret complex data. They work with companies to make better business decisions. Roles include working with data from Google and LinkedIn to create insights.
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Software Engineer
Average Salary: $214,867
They design, develop, and test software applications. They often work for tech companies like Oracle and Microsoft. Their tasks include writing code, debugging programs, and collaborating with other developers.
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Product Designer
Average Salary: $207,738
These designers create products that people love to use. They work with companies like Apple and Tesla to improve their offerings. Their focus is on making products easy and enjoyable to use.
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Product Manager
Average Salary: $205,051
Product Managers lead the development of new products. They work closely with engineers and designers. They ensure that products meet customer needs and company goals.
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Engineer
Average Salary: $181,728
Engineers design, build, and test systems. They can work in various industries, from construction to tech. Their role is critical in creating safe and efficient systems.
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Nurse Practitioner
Average Salary: $176,104
Nurse Practitioners provide healthcare services. They work in hospitals and clinics. Their role is to diagnose and treat patients, often managing chronic conditions.
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Marketing Manager
Average Salary: $155,029
Marketing Managers create and implement marketing strategies. They work with companies to promote their products. Their goal is to increase brand awareness and sales.
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Technical Project Lead
Average Salary: $148,314
Technical Project Leads oversee technical projects. They ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget. They work with cross-functional teams and manage technical resources.
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Program Manager
Average Salary: $147,326
Program Managers coordinate and manage programs. They work with teams to ensure program goals are met. Their role is to provide direction and support to program stakeholders.
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What are the best paying jobs in San Mateo, CA without a degree?

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Line Cook
Average Salary: $42,694
As a line cook, you work closely with the head chef to prepare meals. The fast-paced environment demands quick thinking and teamwork. Companies in this field include various fine dining and casual eateries, ensuring a variety of experiences.
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Service Team Member
Average Salary: $42,633
Service team members ensure that customers enjoy their dining experience. They take orders, serve food, and handle payments. Working in busy restaurants means you'll develop excellent customer service skills. Local spots often require flexible hours and teamwork.
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Kitchen Team Member
Average Salary: $42,319
Kitchen team members assist with food preparation and cleaning. This role involves supporting chefs and cooks, ensuring a clean and efficient kitchen. Many local restaurants, cafes, and bistros offer this opportunity, making it a good fit for those who enjoy teamwork and quick work.
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Barista
Average Salary: $40,990
Baristas craft delicious beverages and ensure a welcoming atmosphere. This role requires attention to detail and a passion for coffee. Many local coffee shops offer this chance, with opportunities to learn from experienced baristas.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $40,612
Dishwasher roles focus on keeping the kitchen clean. This involves washing dishes, cleaning utensils, and maintaining a tidy workspace. Many local eateries, including casual dining spots, offer this position, often requiring reliable and hardworking individuals.
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Server
Average Salary: $40,236
Servers play a key role in customer satisfaction by taking orders and serving food. This job requires strong communication skills and a friendly demeanor. Local restaurants often provide flexible hours and the chance to interact with customers.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in San Mateo, CA?

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Roblox
Average Salary: $243,077
Roblox is a leading platform for interactive gaming and a key player in the online gaming industry. The company offers a wide range of job opportunities, particularly in software engineering, design, and business roles.
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Freshworks
Average Salary: $212,798
Freshworks is a software company known for its customer service, IT service management, and sales software. Freshworks offers many job opportunities in engineering, product management, and marketing.
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San Mateo County Community College District
Average Salary: $201,778
The San Mateo County Community College District provides higher education through several colleges. It offers many opportunities in education, administration, and support staff roles.
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Verkada
Average Salary: $191,766
Verkada focuses on building security and safety for businesses. The company provides jobs in software engineering, sales, and customer success.
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Upstart
Average Salary: $186,452
Upstart is a leading tech company offering loans to college students without the traditional credit check. They provide roles in engineering, data science, and business development.
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GoodLeap
Average Salary: $169,284
GoodLeap specializes in electric vehicle financing for homebuyers. It offers jobs in finance, engineering, and sales.
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Snowflake
Average Salary: $166,730
Snowflake is a cloud-based data warehousing company. The company provides roles in software engineering, data science, and sales.
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Guidewire Software
Average Salary: $156,911
Guidewire Software offers software solutions for the insurance industry. It provides jobs in software engineering, product management, and customer success.
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Skydio
Average Salary: $153,628
Skydio designs autonomous drones for commercial use. The company provides roles in robotics, software engineering, and marketing.
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Sutter Health
Average Salary: $126,274
Sutter Health is a not-for-profit network of health organizations. The company offers jobs in healthcare, administration, and support services.
How does the cost of living in San Mateo, CA compare to the national average?

San Mateo, California, exhibits a significantly higher cost of living compared to the national average, which is standardized at 100. The housing index in San Mateo reaches 327, indicating that housing costs are more than three times the national average. This elevated figure suggests that individuals and families will need to allocate a substantial portion of their income to secure housing in this area.
Transportation costs in San Mateo are also above average, with an index of 165. This means that expenses related to transportation, including fuel, vehicle maintenance, and public transit, are nearly 70% higher than the national norm. Furthermore, groceries show a cost increase of 32% compared to the national average, with an index of 132, reflecting the higher prices for food and household items in this region. These factors combine to make San Mateo a location where the overall cost of living is notably higher than the national average, influencing financial planning for potential residents.



