What is the average salary in Santa Clara, CA?
Santa Clara, CA, offers attractive salary opportunities for job seekers across various industries. The average yearly salary stands at $128,875, with many roles paying above the national average. High-demand fields include technology, healthcare, and engineering, where competitive wages are standard.
Specifically, the distribution of salaries shows a strong concentration around the midpoint. Around 26.74% of jobs offer between $62,195 and $86,391. Positions in the technology sector typically fall within this range, providing lucrative career paths. Higher salaries are common in specialized roles, with 10.37% of jobs paying between $86,391 and $110,586. This trend is particularly visible in software development, data science, and other IT-related fields. A significant 30.44% of jobs pay more than $158,977, highlighting the high earning potential in Santa Clara, CA.
What are the best paying jobs in Santa Clara, CA?

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Solutions Architect
Average Salary: $241,395
A Solutions Architect works with clients to create solutions that meet their needs. This role involves working for tech companies like Google and Apple. In this job, you use your skills to design systems that are both effective and scalable.
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Architect
Average Salary: $240,267
An Architect designs buildings and structures that are safe and functional. In Santa Clara, companies like Apple and LinkedIn look for architects to create their new campuses. This role combines creativity with technical skills to bring new projects to life.
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Product Designer
Average Salary: $231,309
A Product Designer creates products that are both useful and appealing. At companies like Apple and Google, this role involves understanding user needs and designing products that meet those needs. This job requires a mix of artistic talent and technical knowledge.
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Development Manager
Average Salary: $229,758
A Development Manager oversees the creation of new software and products. This role is key in companies like Tesla and Apple. The manager leads teams to ensure projects are completed on time and meet quality standards. This job is about leadership and coordination.
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Machine Learning Engineer
Average Salary: $226,892
A Machine Learning Engineer develops algorithms that allow machines to learn. At companies like Google and PayPal, this role involves working with data to create models that improve systems. This job combines skills in math, programming, and problem-solving.
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Principal Engineer
Average Salary: $223,871
A Principal Engineer leads a team of engineers on large projects. In Santa Clara, companies like Apple and Tesla rely on these professionals to innovate. This role involves solving complex problems and making technical decisions. It requires strong leadership and technical skills.
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Technical Programs Manager
Average Salary: $223,064
A Technical Programs Manager coordinates technical projects within a company. At firms like Google and Tesla, this role ensures projects stay on track and meet goals. This job involves planning, communication, and problem-solving. It requires both technical knowledge and leadership skills.
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Clinical Supervisor
Average Salary: $220,158
A Clinical Supervisor oversees healthcare teams in hospitals and clinics. In Santa Clara, this role is important in providing quality patient care. The supervisor manages staff, ensures compliance with health regulations, and improves patient care processes.
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Solution Architect
Average Salary: $208,479
A Solution Architect designs technical solutions for business problems. At companies like Intel and VMware, this role involves creating systems that integrate well with existing infrastructure. The architect works closely with stakeholders to ensure the solution meets their needs.
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Product Manager
Average Salary: $207,388
A Product Manager is responsible for the success of a product from start to finish. In Santa Clara, companies like Apple and Google need product managers to oversee the product lifecycle. This role involves market research, product development, and coordinating with various teams.
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What are the best paying jobs in Santa Clara, CA without a degree?

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Server
Average Salary: $61,577
Servers work in high-paced environments at restaurants, catering to guests' needs. They take orders, deliver food and drinks, and ensure a pleasant dining experience. Popular employers in Santa Clara include local cafes and high-end restaurants.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $51,304
Housekeeping staff maintain cleanliness in hotels and lodges. They clean rooms, change linens, and ensure all areas are tidy. Many positions are available in Santa Clara's hospitality industry, including hotels and resorts.
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Groundskeeper
Average Salary: $50,897
Groundskeepers manage and maintain the landscaping and grounds of properties. They perform tasks such as mowing lawns, trimming hedges, and planting flowers. Companies in Santa Clara often need skilled groundskeepers for residential and commercial properties.
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Server Assistant
Average Salary: $50,236
Server assistants support servers by setting up tables, refilling supplies, and cleaning. They help ensure smooth operations in dining areas. In Santa Clara, these roles are in demand in various dining establishments, from casual to upscale restaurants.
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Landscaper
Average Salary: $48,118
Landscapers design and maintain outdoor spaces. They plant flowers, trees, and shrubs and install irrigation systems. In Santa Clara, landscapers work for landscaping firms and private homeowners alike, contributing to the area's beauty.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $46,041
Line cooks prepare meals in large quantities for restaurants and cafes. They work quickly to meet service demands and follow recipes. Santa Clara offers opportunities in busy eateries and fine dining establishments.
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Service Team Member
Average Salary: $45,887
Service team members handle customer service in retail and hospitality settings. They assist customers, manage transactions, and ensure a positive shopping or dining experience. Many local businesses in Santa Clara value excellent service team members.
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Yard Worker
Average Salary: $44,991
Yard workers maintain the grounds of both residential and commercial properties. Their tasks include mowing lawns, raking leaves, and general yard upkeep. Positions are available with landscaping companies and property management firms in Santa Clara.
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Kitchen Team Member
Average Salary: $44,259
Kitchen team members work behind the scenes in restaurants and cafes, preparing ingredients and assisting in food preparation. Their roles are crucial in keeping the kitchen running smoothly. Santa Clara has many restaurants seeking reliable kitchen staff.
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Floor Tech
Average Salary: $43,993
Floor techs clean and maintain the floors in various settings, including offices and retail spaces. They use specialized equipment to sweep, mop, and polish floors. Many businesses in Santa Clara rely on floor techs to keep their spaces spotless.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Santa Clara, CA?

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NVIDIA
Average Salary: $229,921
NVIDIA leads in graphics and AI technology. It offers cutting-edge opportunities for tech enthusiasts.
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AMD
Average Salary: $226,146
AMD designs computer processors and graphics chips. It provides a dynamic work environment with innovative projects.
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ServiceNow
Average Salary: $220,218
ServiceNow streamlines business processes. It offers rewarding careers in cloud computing and IT management.
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Apple
Average Salary: $217,387
Apple designs iconic products like iPhones and MacBooks. Working here means being part of a creative and influential tech giant.
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Qualcomm
Average Salary: $209,213
Qualcomm specializes in wireless technology. It provides excellent growth opportunities in telecommunications and mobile.
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Pure Storage
Average Salary: $206,499
Pure Storage focuses on data storage solutions. It offers a forward-thinking environment for storage tech professionals.
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Intel Corporation
Average Salary: $201,867
Intel is a global leader in semiconductor technology. It provides a wealth of opportunities for tech and engineering talent.
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Ampere
Average Salary: $201,667
Ampere develops high-performance computing solutions. It is a growing company with exciting tech projects.
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Palo Alto Networks
Average Salary: $194,713
Palo Alto Networks specializes in cybersecurity. It offers a stable and innovative work environment for security experts.
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Agilent Technologies
Average Salary: $192,293
Agilent provides scientific instruments and software. It offers rewarding careers in research and development.
How does the cost of living in Santa Clara, CA compare to the national average?

Santa Clara, California, has a higher cost of living than the nationwide average in most categories. Housing costs in Santa Clara are significantly higher, standing at 244, which is 144% of the national average. This means that housing costs are nearly two and a half times the average cost across the country. For those considering a move to Santa Clara, this represents a substantial financial commitment.
Other expenses also reflect Santa Clara's elevated cost of living. Groceries are 44% higher than the national average, coming in at 144. Utilities and transportation costs are both 27% above the average, at 116 and 127, respectively. While healthcare costs remain relatively close to the national average, at 109, and miscellaneous expenses are also at 127, the overall picture indicates that Santa Clara is more expensive to live in. These factors should be considered by anyone evaluating job opportunities in the area.



