Overview Salaries

Salaries in Santa Ana, CA

Updated on Jan 12, 2026
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Salary

What is the average salary in Santa Ana, CA?

The average salary in Santa Ana, CA is $65,035 per year.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Santa Ana, CA, showing an average salary of $65,035 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Santa Ana, CA, showing an average salary of $5,420 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Santa Ana, CA, showing an average salary of $1,251 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Santa Ana, CA, showing an average salary of $31 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Santa Ana, CA, offers a range of salary opportunities across different industries. The average yearly salary in the area is about $65,000. This includes jobs in a variety of sectors, with many people earning salaries that reflect both experience and industry demand.

Some of the top-paying jobs in Santa Ana include roles such as software developers, financial managers, and healthcare administrators. These positions often require specialized skills and education, which can lead to higher salaries. On the other hand, positions like retail sales associates and customer service representatives typically offer lower average salaries, around $33,000. However, job growth and opportunities for advancement can make these roles appealing to those starting out in their careers.

For job seekers, it helps to know that salaries can vary based on experience, education, and the specific industry. Researching the average salaries for desired roles can assist in setting realistic expectations and planning career advancement.

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What are the best paying jobs in Santa Ana, CA?

Santa Ana, CA, offers a variety of high-paying job opportunities for professionals with specialized skills. Nurse Practitioners top the list with an average salary of $156,602 annually. These healthcare providers manage patient care and often enjoy benefits like flexible schedules and competitive pay. Software Engineers also find Santa Ana attractive, with average salaries reaching $130,828. This role demands technical skills and innovation, offering rewarding career growth. Other well-paying jobs include Controller, Attorney, and Regional Manager, each providing strong earning potential and diverse professional challenges. Job seekers in Santa Ana have numerous paths to high-earning careers.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Santa Ana, CA, highlighting Nurse Practitioner with the highest at $156,602 and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with the lowest at $109,492.

  1. Nurse Practitioner
    Average Salary: $156,602
    This role provides advanced patient care in clinics and hospitals. You will work closely with physicians and other healthcare providers. Employers include Kaiser Permanente and Providence Health & Services.
    Find Nurse Practitioner jobs in Santa Ana, CA


  2. Software Engineer
    Average Salary: $130,828
    This position involves designing and developing software solutions. You'll work on projects for tech companies and startups. Major employers are Amazon Web Services and Google.
    Find Software Engineer jobs in Santa Ana, CA


  3. Controller
    Average Salary: $128,664
    This role manages accounting and finance operations. You will oversee financial reporting and budgeting. Companies like Broadcom and Seagate Technology often seek controllers.
    Find Controller jobs in Santa Ana, CA


  4. Attorney
    Average Salary: $119,656
    This position requires legal expertise in various areas. You will handle cases and provide legal advice. Firms such as Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP and Sullivan & Cromwell LLP offer opportunities.
    Find Attorney jobs in Santa Ana, CA


  5. Regional Manager
    Average Salary: $117,729
    In this role, you will oversee operations in a specific region. You will manage teams and ensure business objectives are met. Companies like Costco and Target need regional managers.
    Find Regional Manager jobs in Santa Ana, CA


  6. Loan Specialist
    Average Salary: $117,005
    This role involves assisting clients with loan applications. You will evaluate credit and financial information. Major employers are Bank of America and Wells Fargo.
    Find Loan Specialist jobs in Santa Ana, CA


  7. Technical Project Lead
    Average Salary: $116,600
    This position involves overseeing technical projects. You will manage teams and ensure projects are completed on time. Companies like Cisco Systems and Qualcomm look for technical project leads.
    Find Technical Project Lead jobs in Santa Ana, CA


  8. Systems Analyst
    Average Salary: $116,396
    This role requires analyzing and improving IT systems. You will work with stakeholders to meet business needs. Employers include Deloitte and Accenture.
    Find Systems Analyst jobs in Santa Ana, CA


  9. Occupational Therapist
    Average Salary: $112,936
    This position involves helping patients regain skills for daily activities. You will work in hospitals and clinics. Employers include Kaiser Permanente and Rady Children's Hospital.
    Find Occupational Therapist jobs in Santa Ana, CA


  10. Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
    Average Salary: $109,492
    This role involves providing therapy to individuals and families. You will help clients with relationship issues. Companies like Kaiser Permanente and Providence Health & Services often seek therapists.
    Find Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist jobs in Santa Ana, CA

What are the best paying jobs in Santa Ana, CA without a degree?

In Santa Ana, CA, job seekers have several opportunities to earn a good income without a degree. Positions such as Restaurant Manager, Irrigation Technician, and Server Assistant offer competitive salaries. These roles provide stable employment and the chance to advance with experience. Roles like Meat Cutter, Floor Tech, and Loader also provide solid earnings. These jobs often require specific skills or certifications but do not need a college degree. Job seekers can find good employment and growth potential in these fields.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Santa Ana, CA without a degree, highlighting Restaurant Manager with the highest at $49,247 and Housekeeping with the lowest at $40,728.

  1. Restaurant Manager
    Average Salary: $49,247
    Lead a team to deliver excellent dining experiences. Oversee operations, manage staff, and ensure customer satisfaction. Work with popular local eateries, including upscale dining and casual dining establishments.
    Find Restaurant Manager jobs in Santa Ana, CA


  2. Irrigation Technician
    Average Salary: $48,264
    Install and maintain irrigation systems. Adjust and repair parts to ensure efficient water use. Collaborate with landscape companies, parks, and residential complexes for reliable water management solutions.
    Find Irrigation Technician jobs in Santa Ana, CA


  3. Server Assistant
    Average Salary: $46,552
    Help servers attend to customers' needs. Deliver food and beverages and ensure a pleasant dining experience. Serve in a variety of dining settings from fine dining to casual cafes.
    Find Server Assistant jobs in Santa Ana, CA


  4. Beauty Consultant
    Average Salary: $42,932
    Provide expert advice on beauty products and services. Assist customers in achieving their beauty goals. Work for high-end beauty stores, helping clients feel confident and beautiful.
    Find Beauty Consultant jobs in Santa Ana, CA


  5. Line Cook
    Average Salary: $42,234
    Prepare ingredients and cook various dishes under pressure. Work quickly to meet demand in busy kitchens. Collaborate with chefs in fast-paced environments to deliver delicious meals.
    Find Line Cook jobs in Santa Ana, CA


  6. Meat Cutter
    Average Salary: $41,771
    Cut and package meat products. Ensure products meet quality standards. Work in grocery stores, butcher shops, and meat processing plants to supply fresh meat to customers.
    Find Meat Cutter jobs in Santa Ana, CA


  7. Floor Tech
    Average Salary: $41,700
    Maintain clean and safe retail environments. Perform tasks like sweeping, mopping, and sanitizing. Ensure that stores present a welcoming and hygienic atmosphere for customers.
    Find Floor Tech jobs in Santa Ana, CA


  8. Loader
    Average Salary: $41,471
    Load and unload trucks with merchandise. Ensure the correct items are shipped and stored. Work in warehouses and distribution centers to keep supply chains moving smoothly.
    Find Loader jobs in Santa Ana, CA


  9. Barista
    Average Salary: $40,878
    Prepare coffee drinks to customer specifications. Create various espresso-based beverages and assist with customer service. Work in popular coffee shops, providing a welcoming environment for coffee enthusiasts.
    Find Barista jobs in Santa Ana, CA


  10. Housekeeping
    Average Salary: $40,728
    Clean and maintain hotel rooms, conference areas, and common spaces. Ensure high standards of cleanliness and order. Work in hotels, motels, and hospitality venues to enhance guest experiences.
    Find Housekeeping jobs in Santa Ana, CA

Which companies offer the top salaries in Santa Ana, CA?

Companies in Santa Ana, CA, offer competitive salaries for job seekers. HNTB Corporation leads with an average salary of $159,778, making it one of the best-paying employers in the area. Following closely, Profit Recovery Partners LLC and Michael Baker International also provide strong compensation, with average salaries of $124,127 and $123,189, respectively. These figures highlight the potential for earning a good income in Santa Ana. Other notable employers include CyberCoders, Sargent & Lundy, and Foundation Building Materials, each offering average salaries that exceed $100,000. Companies like T-Mobile, Kaiser Permanente, and the Superior Court of Orange County also provide stable compensation for their employees.
Graph displaying company salaries in Santa Ana, CA, highlighting HNTB Corporation with the highest at $159,778 and Superior Court of Orange County with the lowest at $97,917.

  1. HNTB Corporation
    Average Salary: $159,778
    HNTB Corporation is a well-known company in civil engineering. It offers design, architecture, and consulting services. It employs many people in Santa Ana.


  2. Profit Recovery Partners LLC
    Average Salary: $124,127
    Profit Recovery Partners LLC helps businesses manage their finances. It is a growing company that provides great salaries.


  3. Michael Baker International
    Average Salary: $123,189
    Michael Baker International offers engineering and program management services. It is a large company with many job opportunities in Santa Ana.


  4. CyberCoders
    Average Salary: $120,675
    CyberCoders is a tech company that helps businesses find the right talent. It provides competitive salaries for its employees.


  5. Sargent & Lundy
    Average Salary: $116,282
    Sargent & Lundy provides engineering services for power generation. It is a good company for those interested in the energy sector.


  6. Foundation Building Materials
    Average Salary: $105,005
    Foundation Building Materials sells building products to contractors. It is a growing company with many job openings.


  7. Banc of California
    Average Salary: $104,220
    Banc of California is a bank with many locations. It offers jobs in finance, banking, and customer service.


  8. T-Mobile
    Average Salary: $104,090
    T-Mobile is a leading wireless carrier. It offers many jobs in sales, customer service, and technology.


  9. Kaiser Permanente
    Average Salary: $98,627
    Kaiser Permanente is a health care provider. It offers jobs in nursing, administration, and patient care.


  10. Superior Court of Orange County
    Average Salary: $97,917
    The Superior Court of Orange County provides judicial services. It employs judges, clerks, and support staff.

How does the cost of living in Santa Ana, CA compare to the national average?

Santa Ana, CA, presents a cost of living that exceeds the nationwide average across multiple categories. Housing costs, for example, are 82% higher in Santa Ana compared to the national index. This means residents need to budget significantly more for housing than the average American. Beyond housing, other expenses also rise above the national average. Groceries cost 5% more, utilities are 8% less, transportation costs 18% higher, healthcare expenses are 3% lower, and miscellaneous items are 2% higher. These figures highlight the importance of considering the local cost of living when planning a move or career change in Santa Ana.
Cost of living comparison graph for Santa Ana, CA vs. Nationwide: housing 82% higher, groceries 5% higher, utilities 2% lower, transportation 18% higher, healthcare 3% lower, miscellaneous 2% higher.

The cost of living in Santa Ana, California, is notably higher than the nationwide average. Housing in Santa Ana stands at a cost of living index of 182, which is 82% higher than the national average of 100. This significant increase reflects the higher prices of homes and rents in the area. Even though groceries in Santa Ana only see a modest 5% increase, with an index of 105, other areas like housing and transportation add up. For instance, transportation costs 18% more, with an index of 118. Utilities remain fairly close to the national average at 98, offering a slight relief to residents.


Healthcare in Santa Ana presents a mixed picture, with an index of 97, showing a 3% decrease from the national average. This can be a positive aspect for those considering relocation. Miscellaneous costs, such as entertainment and personal care, have an index of 102, which is a 2% increase from the national average. Overall, Santa Ana’s cost of living is higher in key areas like housing and transportation, which potential residents should consider.

There are 1,482 job openings in Santa Ana, CA, today!

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Santa Ana, CA
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