What is the average salary in Santa Cruz, CA?
Santa Cruz, CA, offers a range of salary opportunities across various industries. The average yearly salary in the area is $70,648. This figure provides a good benchmark for job seekers to understand the earning potential in the region. Salaries vary significantly across different sectors, offering a variety of options for professionals.
Some of the highest-paying jobs in Santa Cruz include roles in technology, healthcare, and finance. For instance, tech professionals can earn upwards of $124,000 per year, while healthcare workers often see salaries around $109,000. Finance professionals also enjoy competitive salaries, with many earning over $94,000 annually. These figures highlight the diverse earning potential available to those who choose to work in Santa Cruz.
What are the best paying jobs in Santa Cruz, CA?

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Staff Nurse
Average Salary: $1,990,390
Staff nurses work in hospitals and clinics. They care for patients and help doctors. They often work in busy environments.
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Radiologic Technologist
Average Salary: $1,376,390
Radiologic technologists use imaging equipment. They take X-rays and scans. They work in hospitals and imaging centers. They help doctors diagnose conditions.
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Traveling Nurse
Average Salary: $1,248,150
Traveling nurses work in different locations. They provide care for patients. They often work in hospitals and clinics. They travel to places where nurses are needed.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $1,208,850
Registered nurses care for patients. They work in hospitals and clinics. They help doctors and other healthcare providers. They provide important care to patients.
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Occupational Therapist
Average Salary: $1,181,030
Occupational therapists help people with injuries. They work in hospitals and clinics. They help patients regain skills. They help people return to daily activities.
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Speech Language Pathologist
Average Salary: $1,150,920
Speech language pathologists help people with speech and language issues. They work in schools and clinics. They help patients communicate better. They work with people of all ages.
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Nuclear Medicine Technologist
Average Salary: $954,360
Nuclear medicine technologists use special equipment. They take images of the body. They work in hospitals and imaging centers. They help doctors diagnose conditions.
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Behavior Analyst
Average Salary: $928,680
Behavior analysts study behavior. They work with people to improve their behavior. They often work in schools and clinics. They help people with autism and other conditions.
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Program Manager
Average Salary: $917,960
Program managers oversee programs. They work in various sectors. They plan and coordinate activities. They ensure programs run smoothly.
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Physical Therapist Assistant
Average Salary: $801,710
Physical therapist assistants help patients recover. They work in hospitals and clinics. They help patients with exercises. They work under physical therapists.
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What are the best paying jobs in Santa Cruz, CA without a degree?

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Arborist Climber
Average Salary: $54,000
Arborists work in tree care, often for landscaping companies. They climb trees to prune and remove branches. This job is ideal for those who enjoy outdoor work and physical activity.
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Groundskeeper
Average Salary: $46,842
Groundskeepers maintain parks and gardens. They work for city parks or private properties. They perform tasks like mowing lawns, planting flowers, and trimming shrubs.
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Meat Cutter
Average Salary: $43,600
Meat cutters work in grocery stores and butcher shops. They slice and package meat for customers. This job requires attention to detail and the ability to work with sharp tools.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $42,444
Housekeepers clean rooms in hotels and motels. They ensure that rooms are tidy and comfortable for guests. This job is great for those who enjoy a clean and organized environment.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $42,356
Line cooks work in fast-paced kitchens. They prepare ingredients and cook meals quickly. They often work in restaurants and cafes, ensuring food is ready on time.
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Server Assistant
Average Salary: $41,002
Server assistants help in dining areas. They take orders and serve food to customers. They work in restaurants, helping to ensure a smooth dining experience.
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Service Team Member
Average Salary: $39,419
Service team members work in various settings. They assist customers and provide support. This role is common in retail stores and service-oriented businesses.
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Barista
Average Salary: $39,282
Baristas work in coffee shops. They prepare drinks and serve customers. They need to be friendly and knowledgeable about coffee products.
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Kitchen Team Member
Average Salary: $38,551
Kitchen team members work in food service. They help prepare meals and maintain kitchen cleanliness. This job is found in restaurants and cafes.
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Server
Average Salary: $37,759
Servers work in restaurants. They take orders and serve food to customers. They need to be friendly and efficient, ensuring a good dining experience.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Santa Cruz, CA?

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CommonSpirit Health
Average Salary: $154,908
CommonSpirit Health is a large healthcare provider. They offer a range of medical services and are known for their commitment to patient care.
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Joby Aviation
Average Salary: $134,695
Joby Aviation is a pioneer in electric air taxis. They are at the forefront of aviation technology and innovation.
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Sutter Health
Average Salary: $120,802
Sutter Health is a well-known healthcare network. They provide quality medical services and are dedicated to patient well-being.
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County of Santa Cruz
Average Salary: $119,421
The County of Santa Cruz offers public services. They are committed to serving the community and ensuring local needs are met.
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Telecare Corporation
Average Salary: $113,965
Telecare Corporation provides mental health services. They focus on helping individuals with mental health challenges lead fulfilling lives.
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Wellpath
Average Salary: $107,996
Wellpath offers healthcare services in correctional facilities. They are dedicated to providing quality care to underserved populations.
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LifePoint Health
Average Salary: $106,909
LifePoint Health is a healthcare provider with a focus on community care. They aim to improve the health of the communities they serve.
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City of Santa Cruz
Average Salary: $88,868
The City of Santa Cruz provides municipal services. They focus on maintaining and improving the quality of life for residents.
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University of California - Santa Cruz
Average Salary: $85,106
The University of California - Santa Cruz offers higher education. They are known for their academic excellence and innovative research.
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Precision Physical Therapy & Fitness
Average Salary: $80,724
Precision Physical Therapy & Fitness provides rehabilitation services. They focus on helping patients recover and improve their physical health.
How does the cost of living in Santa Cruz, CA compare to the national average?

Santa Cruz, CA, has a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average. Housing costs in Santa Cruz are notably 60% higher, with an index of 160 compared to the average of 100. This significant increase can impact potential residents' budgets, making it essential to consider these costs when planning a move.
The cost of groceries in Santa Cruz is 20% higher than the national average, with an index of 120. Utilities also show a 10% increase, with an index of 110. Transportation costs are slightly higher, at 15% above the average, with an index of 115. Healthcare costs remain relatively close to the national average, with a modest 5% increase, indexed at 105. Miscellaneous expenses are 30% higher, with an index of 130. These factors collectively highlight the elevated cost of living in Santa Cruz, which job seekers should weigh when considering relocation.



