What is the average salary in Santa Ana, CA?
Santa Ana, CA, offers a variety of job opportunities with competitive salaries. The average yearly salary in the area is $65,159. This figure reflects the diverse economic landscape, providing a range of earning potentials. Job seekers can find positions that match their skills and experience, with salaries varying across different industries.
Some of the top-paying sectors in Santa Ana include technology, healthcare, and finance. For example, tech professionals can earn upwards of $124,091 per year, while healthcare workers often see salaries of $108,909. These figures highlight the potential for earning a good income in Santa Ana, making it an attractive place for job seekers looking to advance their careers.
What are the best paying jobs in Santa Ana, CA?

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Nurse Practitioner
Average Salary: $156,673
This role involves providing primary care and managing patient health. Nurse practitioners work in hospitals, clinics, and private practices. They collaborate with doctors and other healthcare professionals to ensure quality care.
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Controller
Average Salary: $131,942
Controllers oversee financial operations, ensuring accuracy and compliance. They work in various industries, including manufacturing and healthcare. Controllers prepare financial reports and manage budgets.
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Software Engineer
Average Salary: $126,867
Software engineers design and develop applications. They work in tech companies and startups. Engineers write code, test software, and collaborate with teams to meet project goals.
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Attorney
Average Salary: $118,978
Attorneys provide legal advice and represent clients in court. They work in law firms, corporations, and government agencies. Attorneys research laws, draft documents, and argue cases.
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Technical Project Lead
Average Salary: $118,419
Technical project leads manage IT projects. They oversee teams and ensure projects are completed on time. They work in tech companies and consultancies, collaborating with developers and stakeholders.
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Systems Analyst
Average Salary: $117,949
Systems analysts design and improve information systems. They work in various industries, including finance and healthcare. Analysts study systems, recommend changes, and work with IT teams.
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Loan Specialist
Average Salary: $117,806
Loan specialists help clients apply for loans. They work in banks and financial institutions. Specialists review applications, assess credit, and guide clients through the process.
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Dental Hygienist
Average Salary: $113,818
Dental hygienists clean teeth and educate patients on oral care. They work in dental offices and clinics. Hygienists take X-rays, remove plaque, and advise on dental health.
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Regional Manager
Average Salary: $113,232
Regional managers oversee operations in a specific area. They work in retail, healthcare, and other industries. Managers coordinate teams, set goals, and ensure compliance with policies.
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Occupational Therapist
Average Salary: $111,224
Occupational therapists help patients recover from injuries or illnesses. They work in hospitals, schools, and rehabilitation centers. Therapists design treatment plans and assist patients in daily activities.
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What are the best paying jobs in Santa Ana, CA without a degree?

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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $49,247
Manage daily operations of a restaurant. Oversee staff, ensure customer satisfaction, and handle finances. Work in popular dining spots like The Habit Burger or In-N-Out Burger.
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Irrigation Technician
Average Salary: $48,137
Install and maintain irrigation systems. Ensure proper water flow and system maintenance. Companies like Sprinkler Pros and Water Wise Irrigation hire for this role.
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Server Assistant
Average Salary: $46,552
Support servers in a restaurant. Take orders, serve food, and clean tables. Work in busy eateries like The Cheesecake Factory or P.F. Chang's.
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Beauty Consultant
Average Salary: $41,923
Help customers choose beauty products. Provide skincare advice and product recommendations. Work in stores like Sephora or Ulta Beauty.
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Floor Tech
Average Salary: $41,863
Maintain cleanliness of floors. Sweep, mop, and vacuum. Work in retail environments like Target or Walmart.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $41,764
Prepare ingredients and cook food in a fast-paced kitchen. Work in teams to meet orders. Common employers include fast-food chains like McDonald's or Chipotle.
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Meat Cutter
Average Salary: $41,611
Cut and package meat for sale. Ensure quality and portion sizes. Work in grocery stores like Vons or Ralphs.
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Loader
Average Salary: $41,231
Load and unload merchandise. Operate forklifts and other equipment. Work in warehouses for companies like Amazon or FedEx.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $40,789
Clean and maintain rooms in hotels or motels. Ensure a comfortable environment for guests. Work in establishments like Hilton or Marriott.
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Barista
Average Salary: $40,746
Prepare and serve coffee and other beverages. Interact with customers and take orders. Work in popular coffee shops like Starbucks or Peet's Coffee.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Santa Ana, CA?

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HNTB Corporation
Average Salary: $161,060
HNTB Corporation is a global infrastructure firm. They offer a variety of services, including design, engineering, and consulting. They are known for their innovative projects and commitment to quality.
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Michael Baker International
Average Salary: $124,922
Michael Baker International is a leading engineering and consulting firm. They work on projects in transportation, water, and energy. They focus on delivering high-quality solutions to their clients.
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CyberCoders
Average Salary: $121,455
CyberCoders is a tech staffing and recruiting company. They help tech companies find the right talent. They are known for their quick and efficient recruitment process.
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Profit Recovery Partners LLC
Average Salary: $121,273
Profit Recovery Partners LLC specializes in financial recovery services. They help companies recover lost revenue and improve financial performance. They are known for their expertise and dedication.
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Sargent & Lundy
Average Salary: $115,915
Sargent & Lundy is a global engineering and consulting firm. They focus on energy, infrastructure, and industrial projects. They are known for their innovative solutions and strong client relationships.
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Banc of California
Average Salary: $104,185
Banc of California is a financial institution offering banking and investment services. They focus on providing personalized service to their clients. They are known for their strong community presence.
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Foundation Building Materials
Average Salary: $103,855
Foundation Building Materials is a leading supplier of building materials. They offer a wide range of products for construction and renovation. They are known for their quality and customer service.
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T-Mobile
Average Salary: $103,019
T-Mobile is a major telecommunications company. They offer mobile phone services, internet, and other communication solutions. They are known for their innovative products and customer-friendly policies.
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Superior Court of Orange County
Average Salary: $98,973
The Superior Court of Orange County is a judicial institution. They handle a variety of legal cases, including civil, criminal, and family law. They are known for their commitment to justice and fairness.
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Kaiser Permanente
Average Salary: $98,823
Kaiser Permanente is a leading healthcare provider. They offer a wide range of medical services, including primary care, specialty care, and hospital services. They are known for their high-quality care and patient satisfaction.
How does the cost of living in Santa Ana, CA compare to the national average?

Santa Ana, CA, has a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average, which is set at 100. The housing index in Santa Ana stands at 162, indicating that housing costs are 62% higher than the average. This significant increase makes finding affordable housing a challenge for many residents. The higher housing costs can impact overall living expenses, making it essential for job seekers to consider these factors when relocating to Santa Ana.
In addition to housing, other areas also show elevated costs in Santa Ana. For instance, groceries have a cost of living index of 114, which is 14% above the national average. Utilities, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous expenses also exceed the average, with indices of 103, 115, 111, and 118, respectively. These increases mean that residents need to budget more for daily necessities and services. Understanding these cost differences can help job seekers make informed decisions about their potential new home in Santa Ana.



