What is the average salary in Santa Maria, CA?
Santa Maria, CA offers a variety of job opportunities with competitive salaries. Many jobs provide good earnings, making it a desirable place for employment. The average yearly salary here stands at $68,015, with job roles varying widely in their pay scales.
A look at the salary distribution shows diverse income levels. For instance, the highest paying jobs can reach up to $205,400 annually. The most common salaries are slightly lower, around $127,000. Other notable salaries include $111,636, $96,009, and $80,382. This range suggests that Santa Maria has many opportunities for workers at different levels, from entry-level to highly skilled positions.
What are the best paying jobs in Santa Maria, CA?

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Nurse Practitioner
Average Salary: $159,327
This role provides healthcare services to patients. Nurse practitioners work in clinics and hospitals, treating minor illnesses and chronic conditions. Many healthcare facilities hire them.
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Pharmacist
Average Salary: $146,444
This position fills prescriptions and provides medication advice. Pharmacists work in community and hospital settings. Key employers include local pharmacies and hospital chains.
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Construction Manager
Average Salary: $134,137
They oversee construction projects from start to finish. Managers work for construction firms and ensure projects stay on budget and on time. Local construction companies offer many opportunities.
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Speech Language Pathologist
Average Salary: $127,454
They diagnose and treat speech and language issues. Working in schools and healthcare settings, these professionals help people of all ages. Local schools and clinics often hire them.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $117,342
RNs provide patient care and support. They work in hospitals and clinics, often under the supervision of physicians. Many healthcare facilities hire nurses to meet their needs.
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Occupational Therapist
Average Salary: $117,084
They help people improve their daily living skills. Occupational therapists work in hospitals, schools, and rehabilitation centers. Local clinics often seek qualified therapists.
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Clinical Supervisor
Average Salary: $99,301
They manage clinical staff and ensure quality care. Supervisors work in healthcare settings such as hospitals and clinics. Local healthcare facilities frequently look for experienced supervisors.
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Behavior Analyst
Average Salary: $91,290
They assess and improve patient behavior. Behavior analysts work in schools and therapy centers. Local schools and rehabilitation centers often hire analysts to help students and clients.
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Technician
Average Salary: $89,728
They perform maintenance and repairs on machinery. Technicians work in factories and maintenance departments. Local manufacturing companies and maintenance firms seek skilled technicians.
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Heavy Equipment Mechanic
Average Salary: $82,730
They repair and maintain heavy machinery. Mechanics work in construction and manufacturing. Local construction companies and manufacturing firms need qualified mechanics.
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What are the best paying jobs in Santa Maria, CA without a degree?

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Concrete Finisher
Average Salary: $60,583
A concrete finisher works on construction sites, ensuring the proper placement of concrete. They prepare and smooth the concrete using tools and machinery. This role involves working with local construction companies.
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Barista
Average Salary: $42,979
Baristas work in coffee shops, preparing beverages for customers. They often need to know a wide range of coffee drinks and can work for popular cafes in the area. This role offers a dynamic and social work environment.
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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $42,437
A restaurant manager oversees the daily operations of a dining establishment. They handle staff scheduling, inventory management, and customer service. This position involves working with well-known restaurants in the community.
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Kitchen Team Member
Average Salary: $40,289
Kitchen team members assist in food preparation and cooking. They work closely with chefs and can learn a variety of cooking techniques. This role is often found in busy family-owned restaurants.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $37,813
Line cooks focus on specific cooking tasks and work in fast-paced environments. They prepare ingredients and cook food quickly and efficiently. This role involves working with local eateries and fast-food chains.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $37,476
Housekeepers clean and maintain guest rooms in hotels and motels. They ensure that rooms are tidy and well-stocked. This role requires attention to detail and is available in various hospitality establishments.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $35,049
Dishwasher wash dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment. They maintain a clean and sanitary kitchen environment. This role is essential in busy restaurants and cafes.
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Server
Average Salary: $34,851
Servers take orders and serve food and drinks to customers. They ensure a pleasant dining experience and handle cash transactions. This role is common in local restaurants and dining establishments.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Santa Maria, CA?

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City of Santa Maria, CA
Average Salary: $99,785
The City of Santa Maria offers various job opportunities with competitive salaries. Employees benefit from comprehensive health and retirement plans.
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County of Santa Barbara
Average Salary: $96,288
Working for the County of Santa Barbara provides stability and benefits. The county offers a wide range of positions, from administrative roles to specialized fields.
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CommonSpirit Health
Average Salary: $94,559
CommonSpirit Health is a health care leader offering rewarding positions. Employees enjoy a variety of benefits, including health coverage and retirement options.
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Community Health Centers of the Central Coast
Average Salary: $89,554
Community Health Centers provide essential services to the community. They offer competitive salaries and a supportive work environment.
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Allan Hancock College
Average Salary: $82,633
Allan Hancock College offers educational roles with good compensation. It is an ideal place for those interested in teaching and academic support.
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Big Brand Tire & Service
Average Salary: $68,363
Big Brand Tire & Service provides auto repair services with fair compensation. It offers a practical work environment with opportunities for growth.
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Merrill Gardens
Average Salary: $65,603
Merrill Gardens focuses on senior living with a caring environment. Salaries are fair, and employees benefit from a supportive community.
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The Stepping Stones Group
Average Salary: $65,235
The Stepping Stones Group offers behavioral health services. It provides a supportive atmosphere with a competitive salary structure.
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Walmart
Average Salary: $60,703
Walmart provides a range of retail positions with competitive wages. Employees benefit from various retail perks and opportunities for advancement.
How does the cost of living in Santa Maria, CA compare to the national average?

When comparing the cost of living in Santa Maria, California, to the nationwide average, the index figures reveal some notable differences. The housing cost in Santa Maria stands at 144, which is 44% higher than the national average of 100. This suggests that housing expenses for residents and newcomers in Santa Maria are significantly above the average costs seen across the United States.
In contrast, while some categories like groceries at 110 and healthcare at 105 show slight increases, others such as utilities at 98, transportation at 95, and miscellaneous at 102 remain relatively close to the national average. This varied distribution indicates that while Santa Maria might be more expensive in certain areas, it is competitive or even lower in others. Understanding these specific indices can help potential residents make informed decisions about where they might best manage their living expenses.



