What is the average salary in Santa Maria, CA?
In Santa Maria, CA, the job market offers a variety of opportunities with competitive salaries. The average yearly salary stands at $66,730. This figure shows that the city provides good earning potential across different industries. Salaries in Santa Maria cater to a range of job levels and skills, making it an attractive place for job seekers.
Salaries in Santa Maria are spread across different job categories. The top-paying jobs include roles like Chief Executive Officers, who earn an average of $184,000 per year. Other high-paying positions include Sales Managers, earning about $170,345, and Software Developers, with an average salary of $156,691. This range offers diverse options for those looking to advance their careers and achieve financial stability.
What are the best paying jobs in Santa Maria, CA?

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Nurse Practitioner
Average Salary: $161,858
A Nurse Practitioner offers advanced medical care in hospitals and clinics. They diagnose illnesses and develop treatment plans. Leading healthcare facilities in the area hire Nurse Practitioners.
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Pharmacist
Average Salary: $148,067
A Pharmacist works in pharmacies and hospitals. They fill prescriptions and advise on medication. Local pharmacies and medical centers provide employment for Pharmacists.
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Speech Language Pathologist
Average Salary: $134,157
A Speech Language Pathologist helps people with communication disorders. They work in schools, hospitals, and clinics. Many institutions offer positions for Speech Language Pathologists.
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Occupational Therapist
Average Salary: $123,787
An Occupational Therapist helps people improve daily activities. They work in rehabilitation centers and schools. Occupational Therapists find jobs in local healthcare facilities.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $117,973
A Registered Nurse provides patient care in hospitals and clinics. They monitor patients and administer treatments. Many healthcare institutions hire Registered Nurses.
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Special Education Instructor
Average Salary: $115,513
A Special Education Instructor teaches students with disabilities. They develop lesson plans and support students. Local schools offer jobs for Special Education Instructors.
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Clinical Supervisor
Average Salary: $97,608
A Clinical Supervisor oversees healthcare staff. They ensure quality care and manage teams. Clinical Supervisors find positions in hospitals and clinics.
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Technician
Average Salary: $91,585
A Technician provides technical support in various fields. They troubleshoot issues and maintain equipment. Technicians work in local businesses and healthcare facilities.
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Behavior Analyst
Average Salary: $88,919
A Behavior Analyst helps individuals improve behaviors. They work in schools and clinics. Behavior Analysts find employment in local educational and healthcare settings.
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Physical Therapist Assistant
Average Salary: $83,073
A Physical Therapist Assistant helps patients recover from injuries. They work in rehabilitation centers. Many facilities hire Physical Therapist Assistants.
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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: $60,217
This role involves working with concrete. It requires skill with hand tools and power tools. This job works with construction companies and landscapers. This person fills forms, smooths the surface, and finishes the concrete.
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Barista
Average Salary: $42,993
A barista mixes and serves beverages in cafes. This job involves using various coffee equipment and working in a fast-paced environment. Local cafes and coffee shops are always looking for skilled baristas.
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Groundskeeper
Average Salary: $42,793
This job focuses on maintaining the landscape of commercial and residential properties. Tasks include mowing lawns, trimming shrubs, and maintaining gardens. These jobs work with property management companies and local schools.
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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $42,419
Managers oversee daily operations in restaurants. This role includes managing staff, handling customer complaints, and ensuring the restaurant runs smoothly. The job works with various dining establishments in the area.
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Kitchen Team Member
Average Salary: $41,862
This position involves working in the kitchen, preparing food and assisting cooks. It is a dynamic role that requires teamwork and efficiency. This job works in busy kitchens and can include local diners and cafes.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $39,146
Line cooks prepare meals quickly and efficiently. They work under pressure in fast-paced environments. This job works in restaurants and caterers, focusing on preparing menu items on time.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $36,762
Dishwasher jobs involve cleaning dishes, pots, and utensils. This role requires attention to detail and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment. This job works in various restaurants and cafes in the area.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $36,318
Housekeepers clean and maintain rooms in hotels, motels, and residential properties. They ensure a clean and welcoming environment for guests. This job works with hospitality companies and local hotels.
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Server
Average Salary: $35,058
Servers take orders, serve food, and interact with customers. This role requires excellent customer service skills and the ability to work under pressure. This job works in various restaurants and cafes.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Santa Maria, CA?

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County of Santa Barbara
Average Salary: $99,301
The County of Santa Barbara offers diverse job opportunities and competitive salaries. Working here means contributing to public services and community development.
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CommonSpirit Health
Average Salary: $95,293
CommonSpirit Health provides rewarding careers in healthcare. They focus on patient care and offer various roles for skilled professionals.
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Community Health Centers of the Central Coast
Average Salary: $87,891
Community Health Centers of the Central Coast aims to improve community health. They offer good compensation and a chance to make a difference.
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Allan Hancock College
Average Salary: $84,150
Allan Hancock College offers educational roles with competitive pay. The college values faculty and staff who support student success.
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The Stepping Stones Group
Average Salary: $69,086
The Stepping Stones Group provides opportunities in behavioral health. Their roles offer good pay and chances to impact lives positively.
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Merrill Gardens
Average Salary: $62,094
Merrill Gardens focuses on senior living and care. They offer rewarding jobs with a focus on quality of life for their residents.
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Telecare Corporation
Average Salary: $60,128
Telecare Corporation offers various roles in mental health and wellness. They value their staff and provide stable jobs with good benefits.
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Santa Maria Joint Union High School District
Average Salary: $51,821
The Santa Maria Joint Union High School District provides educational opportunities. They offer competitive salaries for educators and staff.
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Walgreens
Average Salary: $50,867
Walgreens offers retail pharmacy jobs with decent pay. They focus on customer service and offer various roles in their stores.
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360 Behavioral Health
Average Salary: $44,629
360 Behavioral Health works in providing behavioral health services. They offer roles that focus on helping individuals and families.
How does the cost of living in Santa Maria, CA compare to the national average?

Santa Maria, CA, presents a unique cost of living profile when compared to the nationwide average, which is set at 100. Housing costs in Santa Maria are notably higher, standing at 140. This means that housing prices are 40% greater than the national average. Job seekers considering Santa Maria should be prepared for significantly higher rent or mortgage payments.
In addition to housing, other living expenses in Santa Maria also exceed the average. Groceries cost 15% more, with an index of 115. Utilities are also above average, at 110, reflecting a 10% increase. Transportation costs are slightly higher at 105, showing a 5% increase. However, healthcare costs in Santa Maria are slightly below average, with an index of 95, meaning they are 5% cheaper than the national average. Miscellaneous expenses remain in line with the national average at 100, indicating no significant changes in this category.



