What is the average salary in Santa Maria, CA?
Job seekers in Santa Maria, CA, find a range of opportunities with competitive salaries. The average yearly salary stands at $67,268. This figure reflects the diverse job market, offering various income levels across different sectors.
Santa Maria, CA, has several industries contributing to this average. The top paying sectors include management, professional, and related occupations. These roles offer salaries upwards of $116,845 annually. Other sectors, such as sales and office, also provide solid income opportunities, with some positions earning over $75,323 per year. This variety ensures that job seekers can find roles that match their skills and career goals.
What are the best paying jobs in Santa Maria, CA?

-
Physician
Average Salary: $372,604
Doctors in Santa Maria care for patients. They work in private practices and larger medical centers. They diagnose illnesses and manage patient care.
Find Physician jobs in Santa Maria, CA
-
Nurse Practitioner
Average Salary: $161,080
They provide primary and specialty care. Nurse Practitioners work in clinics and hospitals. They prescribe medications and treat patients with chronic conditions.
Find Nurse Practitioner jobs in Santa Maria, CA
-
Pharmacist
Average Salary: $147,965
Pharmacists in Santa Maria fill prescriptions and consult with patients. They work in local pharmacies. They ensure patients receive the right medication and dosage.
Find Pharmacist jobs in Santa Maria, CA
-
Speech Language Pathologist
Average Salary: $134,457
They help patients with speech and language issues. They work in schools and healthcare facilities. They develop treatment plans and provide therapy sessions.
Find Speech Language Pathologist jobs in Santa Maria, CA
-
Occupational Therapist
Average Salary: $123,834
They assist patients in regaining skills for daily activities. They work in rehabilitation centers and clinics. They design exercises and activities tailored to each patient.
Find Occupational Therapist jobs in Santa Maria, CA
-
Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $119,115
RNs provide patient care and support doctors. They work in hospitals and clinics. They monitor patients, administer medications, and assist with treatments.
Find Registered Nurse jobs in Santa Maria, CA
-
Special Education Instructor
Average Salary: $115,725
They teach students with special needs. They work in public and private schools. They develop lesson plans and support individual learning needs.
Find Special Education Instructor jobs in Santa Maria, CA
-
Clinical Supervisor
Average Salary: $97,571
They oversee clinical staff and ensure quality care. They work in hospitals and clinics. They manage staff, schedules, and patient care.
Find Clinical Supervisor jobs in Santa Maria, CA
-
Technician
Average Salary: $92,193
They support healthcare professionals. They work in labs and medical facilities. They conduct tests, maintain equipment, and ensure everything runs smoothly.
Find Technician jobs in Santa Maria, CA
-
Behavior Analyst
Average Salary: $89,947
They work with individuals to improve behavior. They work in schools and healthcare settings. They develop plans and provide therapy to help patients.
Find Behavior Analyst jobs in Santa Maria, CA
What are the best paying jobs in Santa Maria, CA without a degree?

-
Concrete Finisher
Average Salary: $60,217
This job involves working with concrete to ensure it sets correctly and looks smooth. Workers use tools like trowels and brooms to shape and finish concrete. Companies like local construction firms offer these jobs.
Find Concrete Finisher jobs in Santa Maria, CA
-
Barista
Average Salary: $42,999
Working in cafes, baristas prepare coffee and other beverages. They often interact with customers, taking orders and making sure drinks are made to taste. Popular chains in the city provide many opportunities.
Find Barista jobs in Santa Maria, CA
-
Groundskeeper
Average Salary: $42,793
Maintaining outdoor areas is key for this role. Workers mow lawns, trim shrubs, and ensure the grounds are clean and presentable. Local schools and parks offer many openings.
Find Groundskeeper jobs in Santa Maria, CA
-
Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $42,583
Managers oversee daily restaurant operations, ensuring everything runs smoothly. They handle staff, inventory, and customer service. Many local eateries need experienced managers.
Find Restaurant Manager jobs in Santa Maria, CA
-
Kitchen Team Member
Average Salary: $41,441
Supporting the kitchen staff, these workers help with various tasks. They might assist with food prep, keeping the area clean, and ensuring ingredients are ready. Restaurants and cafes offer these positions.
Find Kitchen Team Member jobs in Santa Maria, CA
-
Line Cook
Average Salary: $38,943
Line cooks prepare meals quickly and efficiently. They work under pressure to ensure food is ready on time. Many local restaurants look for skilled line cooks.
Find Line Cook jobs in Santa Maria, CA
-
Dishwasher
Average Salary: $36,694
Dishwasher roles involve cleaning dishes and kitchen tools. This job requires attention to detail and strong work ethic. Cafes and restaurants need dependable dishwashers.
Find Dishwasher jobs in Santa Maria, CA
-
Housekeeping
Average Salary: $36,189
Keeping guest rooms and public areas clean is the main task. Housekeeping staff must be thorough and organized. Hotels and motels in the city offer many job openings.
Find Housekeeping jobs in Santa Maria, CA
-
Server
Average Salary: $35,025
Serving guests in restaurants, servers take orders and deliver food and drinks. They must have good communication skills and be friendly. Various dining spots need friendly servers.
Find Server jobs in Santa Maria, CA
Which companies offer the top salaries in Santa Maria, CA?

-
County of Santa Barbara
Average Salary: $97,882
The County of Santa Barbara offers a range of career opportunities in public service. It provides a competitive salary package, benefits, and a chance to make a positive impact on the community.
-
CommonSpirit Health
Average Salary: $95,739
CommonSpirit Health is a health organization that values its employees. It offers a good salary and a variety of roles in healthcare. It’s a place where you can grow your career and help others.
-
Community Health Centers of the Central Coast
Average Salary: $88,061
This health center focuses on providing care to the community. It offers a decent salary and a supportive work environment. It’s a good place for those who want to work in healthcare.
-
Allan Hancock College
Average Salary: $85,031
Allan Hancock College offers teaching and administrative positions. It provides a good salary and opportunities for professional growth. It’s a great place for educators and those in higher education.
-
Big Brand Tire & Service
Average Salary: $69,030
Big Brand Tire & Service offers jobs in automotive services. It provides a competitive salary and a chance to work in a dynamic environment. It’s a good choice for those in the automotive industry.
-
The Stepping Stones Group
Average Salary: $68,221
The Stepping Stones Group offers roles in care and support services. It provides a good salary and opportunities to make a difference in people’s lives. It’s a place for those who want to help others.
-
Walmart
Average Salary: $63,600
Walmart offers a variety of retail and management positions. It provides a decent salary and benefits. It’s a great place for those looking for retail experience and opportunities to advance.
-
Merrill Gardens
Average Salary: $62,885
Merrill Gardens provides senior living services. It offers a good salary and a chance to work with seniors. It’s a good place for those who care about elder care and community services.
-
Telecare Corporation
Average Salary: $59,538
Telecare Corporation offers roles in mental health services. It provides a fair salary and a chance to help those in need. It’s a place for those passionate about mental health support.
-
Santa Maria Joint Union High School District
Average Salary: $51,828
This school district offers educational roles. It provides a decent salary and a chance to work with students. It’s a good place for those who want to be part of the education system.
How does the cost of living in Santa Maria, CA compare to the national average?

Santa Maria, California, stands out with a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average, which is indexed at 100. Housing costs in Santa Maria are particularly elevated, standing at 130. This means housing prices are 30% higher than the national average. For job seekers considering this area, it's important to account for this significant increase in housing expenses when planning a budget.
In addition to housing, other living expenses in Santa Maria are also above average. Groceries cost 110, which is 10% more than the national average. Utilities, which are necessary for daily living, are indexed at 105, reflecting a 5% increase. Transportation costs are at 115, meaning they are 15% higher than the average. Healthcare expenses are 20% above average, coming in at 120, while miscellaneous costs are slightly above average at 108, an 8% increase. These metrics collectively show that Santa Maria has a higher cost of living in multiple essential areas, which potential residents should consider.



