What is the average salary in Santa Monica, CA?
Santa Monica, CA, offers a diverse range of salary opportunities across different industries. The average yearly salary in Santa Monica is around $85,128. This makes it an attractive location for many job seekers looking for a good income.
The job market in Santa Monica features a wide salary distribution. For example, the lowest-paid roles earn around $35,740 per year, while the highest-paid positions can reach up to $225,000 annually. This variety allows professionals to find jobs that match their skills and experience levels. Here are some top industries and their average salaries in Santa Monica:
- Computer and Mathematical: $121,767
- Management: $104,562
- Legal: $87,356
- Healthcare: $70,151
- Education: $52,945
What are the best paying jobs in Santa Monica, CA?

-
Nurse Practitioner
Average Salary: $192,752
In this role, you will provide primary and specialty care. This includes diagnosing and treating conditions. You will work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals and clinics. Your expertise will help manage patient care and improve health outcomes.
Find Nurse Practitioner jobs in Santa Monica, CA
-
Pharmacist
Average Salary: $181,859
Pharmacists play a key role in patient care. They ensure safe and effective use of medications. This role involves dispensing medications and counseling patients. They work in pharmacies, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities. Your attention to detail is vital to patient safety.
Find Pharmacist jobs in Santa Monica, CA
-
Automotive Consultant
Average Salary: $181,025
In this role, you will advise customers on vehicle purchases. You will provide information on features and financing options. This role requires a good understanding of the automotive market. You will work in dealerships and help customers make informed decisions.
Find Automotive Consultant jobs in Santa Monica, CA
-
Software Engineer
Average Salary: $175,027
Software engineers design and develop software applications. They work on both front-end and back-end development. This role requires strong problem-solving skills. They collaborate with cross-functional teams to create innovative solutions. This position is ideal for those passionate about technology.
Find Software Engineer jobs in Santa Monica, CA
-
Nuclear Medicine Technologist
Average Salary: $140,121
Technologists in this field use imaging equipment. They prepare and administer radiopharmaceuticals. This role requires attention to detail and strong technical skills. They work in hospitals and imaging centers to help diagnose and treat patients.
Find Nuclear Medicine Technologist jobs in Santa Monica, CA
-
Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $137,660
Registered nurses provide direct patient care. They coordinate with other healthcare professionals. This role requires compassion and strong communication skills. They work in hospitals, clinics, and home health settings, ensuring patients receive the best care.
Find Registered Nurse jobs in Santa Monica, CA
-
Business Developer
Average Salary: $136,446
In this role, you will identify new business opportunities. You will work to expand the company’s market presence. This position involves market research and relationship building. You will collaborate with sales and marketing teams to drive growth.
Find Business Developer jobs in Santa Monica, CA
-
Speech Language Pathologist
Average Salary: $132,633
This role involves evaluating and treating communication and swallowing disorders. You will work with patients of all ages. This role requires empathy and strong interpersonal skills. You will help patients improve their communication abilities and quality of life.
Find Speech Language Pathologist jobs in Santa Monica, CA
-
Care Manager
Average Salary: $118,638
Care managers coordinate care for patients. They ensure that patients receive the right care at the right time. This role involves communication with healthcare providers and families. It is essential for improving patient outcomes and satisfaction.
Find Care Manager jobs in Santa Monica, CA
-
Account Manager
Average Salary: $116,950
Account managers build and maintain relationships with clients. They ensure client satisfaction and retention. This role requires strong communication and organizational skills. They work with various stakeholders to meet client needs and achieve business objectives.
Find Account Manager jobs in Santa Monica, CA
What are the best paying jobs in Santa Monica, CA without a degree?

-
Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $86,000
Manage the daily operations of a bustling restaurant. Oversee staff, handle customer service, and ensure smooth service. Ideal for those who enjoy a dynamic environment, working with high-energy teams.
Find Restaurant Manager jobs in Santa Monica, CA
-
Kitchen Manager
Average Salary: $62,031
Supervise kitchen staff and manage food preparation. Ensure quality and safety standards are met. A key role for those who thrive in fast-paced, high-pressure environments.
Find Kitchen Manager jobs in Santa Monica, CA
-
Beauty Consultant
Average Salary: $48,154
Help clients achieve their beauty goals. Recommend products and services tailored to individual needs. Great for those passionate about beauty and customer service.
Find Beauty Consultant jobs in Santa Monica, CA
-
Housekeeping
Average Salary: $44,677
Maintain cleanliness and order in various settings. Perform tasks such as cleaning rooms, changing linens, and restocking supplies. Perfect for those who value a tidy and organized environment.
Find Housekeeping jobs in Santa Monica, CA
-
Service Team Member
Average Salary: $43,464
Provide excellent customer service in a fast-paced environment. Assist with bookings, manage reservations, and ensure guests have a pleasant experience. Ideal for those who enjoy interacting with people.
Find Service Team Member jobs in Santa Monica, CA
-
Recreation Assistant
Average Salary: $43,128
Organize and lead recreational activities for participants of all ages. Plan events, games, and educational programs. Great for those who enjoy working with people and facilitating fun experiences.
Find Recreation Assistant jobs in Santa Monica, CA
-
Kitchen Team Member
Average Salary: $42,982
Assist in the preparation and cooking of meals. Work in a team to ensure timely service. A good fit for those who enjoy working in a busy kitchen environment.
Find Kitchen Team Member jobs in Santa Monica, CA
-
Line Cook
Average Salary: $42,821
Prepare ingredients, cook food, and ensure timely service. Work in a fast-paced kitchen setting. Ideal for those who enjoy hands-on cooking and working in a team.
Find Line Cook jobs in Santa Monica, CA
-
Server Assistant
Average Salary: $42,724
Support servers in providing excellent service to guests. Set up tables, assist with orders, and maintain a clean dining area. Great for those who enjoy a fast-paced, interactive work environment.
Find Server Assistant jobs in Santa Monica, CA
-
Barista
Average Salary: $41,607
Prepare and serve coffee and other beverages. Interact with customers to understand their preferences. Perfect for those who enjoy a creative and fast-paced environment.
Find Barista jobs in Santa Monica, CA
Which companies offer the top salaries in Santa Monica, CA?

-
Amazon Web Services
Average Salary: $182,355
Amazon Web Services offers a range of cloud computing services. It provides a flexible work environment and extensive benefits.
-
Kite Pharma
Average Salary: $174,560
Kite Pharma focuses on cancer treatment research. It offers a competitive salary and a chance to impact lives.
-
Pete Health
Average Salary: $172,195
Pete Health is a leading provider of health solutions. It offers a great work culture and high compensation.
-
Roku
Average Salary: $157,940
Roku specializes in streaming devices. It provides a dynamic work environment and attractive salary packages.
-
Amazon.com
Average Salary: $155,031
Amazon is a global e-commerce giant. It offers numerous career opportunities with a competitive pay scale.
-
AstraZeneca
Average Salary: $138,615
AstraZeneca is involved in biopharmaceutical research. It provides a good salary and chances for growth.
-
The Walt Disney Company
Average Salary: $127,349
The Walt Disney Company is a leading entertainment company. It offers a variety of job roles with good compensation.
-
Activision
Average Salary: $123,553
Activision is a video game publisher. It provides a fun work environment and decent pay.
-
Legacy Personnel Inc
Average Salary: $119,506
Legacy Personnel Inc offers staffing solutions. It provides good salaries and opportunities for career advancement.
-
Syneos Health Commercial Solutions
Average Salary: $117,615
Syneos Health Commercial Solutions focuses on healthcare solutions. It offers a good salary and a positive work environment.
How does the cost of living in Santa Monica, CA compare to the national average?

Santa Monica, CA, presents a notably high cost of living compared to the nationwide average. The housing index in Santa Monica stands at 318, which is over three times the average cost of living index of 100. This substantial increase means that housing costs in Santa Monica are significantly more expensive than in most other parts of the country.
Other aspects of living also reflect higher costs in Santa Monica. The grocery index is 124, meaning groceries are 24% more expensive than the national average. Utilities are 8% above the average at 108, while transportation costs are 19% higher at 119. Healthcare costs in Santa Monica are 17% above the nationwide average, with an index of 117. Miscellaneous expenses are 11% higher than the national average, standing at 111. This comprehensive data highlights the elevated expenses that residents in Santa Monica face across various sectors.



