Salaries in Santa Barbara, CA
What is the average salary in Santa Barbara, CA?
Santa Barbara, CA, offers a range of salary opportunities across various industries. The average salary for jobs in this area is around 68,597 dollars per year. This figure provides a good benchmark for job seekers to understand the earning potential in the region. Salaries can vary widely based on the industry and position.
Here are some average salary figures for different roles in Santa Barbara:
- Entry-level positions: $32,500
- Mid-level positions: $60,227
- Senior-level positions: $129,545
- Executive-level positions: $185,000
What are the best paying jobs in Santa Barbara, CA?

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General Dentist
Average Salary: $314,626
This role involves diagnosing and treating oral health issues. Dentists work with patients to improve their dental health. They often work in private practices or dental clinics.
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Nurse Practitioner
Average Salary: $158,423
Nurse Practitioners provide primary and specialty care. They diagnose and treat illnesses. They often work in hospitals or clinics, collaborating with doctors and other healthcare professionals.
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Pharmacist
Average Salary: $146,388
Pharmacists fill prescriptions and advise patients on medication use. They work in pharmacies and ensure patients understand their medications. They also check for potential drug interactions.
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Software Engineer
Average Salary: $136,537
Software Engineers design and develop software applications. They work with teams to create new programs. They often work for tech companies, including those in the tech-friendly Santa Barbara area.
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Dental Hygienist
Average Salary: $134,802
Dental Hygienists clean teeth and educate patients on oral care. They work with patients to prevent dental issues. They often work in dental offices and clinics.
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Director of Nursing
Average Salary: $123,725
Directors of Nursing oversee nursing staff and operations. They ensure patient care meets high standards. They often work in hospitals and healthcare facilities.
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Construction Manager
Average Salary: $121,499
Construction Managers oversee building projects. They coordinate workers and manage budgets. They often work for construction firms in the area.
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Program Manager
Average Salary: $120,455
Program Managers lead specific projects within organizations. They ensure projects are completed on time and within budget. They often work for companies in various sectors.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $116,999
Registered Nurses provide patient care and support. They work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings. They often collaborate with doctors and other healthcare professionals.
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Technical Project Lead
Average Salary: $114,482
Technical Project Leads manage tech projects. They coordinate teams and ensure projects meet goals. They often work for tech companies and startups in the area.
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What are the best paying jobs in Santa Barbara, CA without a degree?

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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $62,123
Manage daily operations of a restaurant. Oversee staff and ensure customer satisfaction. Work in a vibrant dining scene with many local eateries.
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Arborist Climber
Average Salary: $52,000
Climb trees to trim and remove branches. Ensure safety and health of trees. Work with local landscaping companies and homeowners.
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Meat Cutter
Average Salary: $46,175
Cut and package meat for sale. Work in grocery stores or butcher shops. Ensure quality and freshness of products.
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Groundskeeper
Average Salary: $43,554
Maintain the grounds of parks, schools, and other properties. Perform tasks like mowing, trimming, and planting. Work with local government agencies and schools.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $40,105
Clean and maintain rooms in hotels, motels, and other lodging facilities. Ensure a comfortable environment for guests. Work with various hospitality businesses.
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Service Team Member
Average Salary: $39,983
Serve food and beverages to customers. Provide excellent customer service. Work in a variety of dining establishments.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $39,729
Prepare ingredients and cook food in a fast-paced kitchen. Work in restaurants and cafes. Ensure food is prepared quickly and correctly.
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Fast Food Services Manager
Average Salary: $37,917
Manage daily operations of a fast-food restaurant. Oversee staff and ensure customer satisfaction. Work in a dynamic food service environment.
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Barista
Average Salary: $37,762
Prepare and serve coffee and other beverages. Work in coffee shops and cafes. Ensure a welcoming atmosphere for customers.
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Landscaper
Average Salary: $37,756
Design and maintain outdoor spaces. Perform tasks like planting, mowing, and landscaping. Work with homeowners and businesses.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Santa Barbara, CA?

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LifeStance Health
Average Salary: $261,605
LifeStance Health offers mental health services. They provide a range of treatments and support for patients. Their team includes psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists.
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Umbra
Average Salary: $131,030
Umbra makes home office furniture. They design stylish and functional products. Their items are popular for creating a productive workspace.
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CyberCoders
Average Salary: $127,255
CyberCoders is a staffing and recruiting company. They connect job seekers with employers. Their focus is on tech and IT positions.
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Edwards Construction Group
Average Salary: $126,028
Edwards Construction Group builds homes and commercial properties. They have a strong reputation for quality and reliability. Their projects range from small homes to large developments.
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AppFolio
Average Salary: $119,887
AppFolio provides software for property management. They help landlords and property managers run their businesses more efficiently. Their tools cover everything from rent collection to maintenance requests.
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CenCal Health
Average Salary: $106,774
CenCal Health offers health services to people in Santa Barbara County. They work with doctors and clinics to provide care. Their mission is to improve the health of the community.
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Consonus Healthcare
Average Salary: $100,926
Consonus Healthcare manages healthcare facilities. They ensure high-quality care for patients. Their services include hospital management and nursing home care.
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ProCare Therapy
Average Salary: $100,159
ProCare Therapy provides physical, occupational, and speech therapy. They work with patients to help them recover and improve their skills. Their therapists are highly trained and experienced.
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Sutter Health
Average Salary: $99,354
Sutter Health is a network of doctors and hospitals. They offer a wide range of medical services. Their goal is to provide excellent care to patients in Northern California.
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Santa Barbara City College
Average Salary: $98,466
Santa Barbara City College offers associate degrees and certificates. They provide affordable education to students. Their programs cover many fields, from business to the arts.
How does the cost of living in Santa Barbara, CA compare to the national average?

Santa Barbara, CA, has a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average. The housing index in Santa Barbara stands at 248, which is 48% higher than the national average of 100. This significant increase reflects the high demand and limited supply of housing in the area, making it one of the most expensive aspects of living there.
Other expenses in Santa Barbara also exceed the national average. For instance, groceries are 30% higher, with an index of 130. Utilities cost 13% more, while transportation costs are 23% higher. Healthcare costs are 12% above the national average, and miscellaneous expenses are 15% higher. These factors contribute to the overall elevated cost of living in Santa Barbara, making it important for job seekers to consider these costs when planning their move.