What is the average salary in Santa Monica, CA?
Santa Monica, CA, offers a variety of job opportunities with competitive salaries. The average yearly salary in the area is $77,671. This figure reflects the diverse economic landscape, where different industries contribute to the overall salary range.
The salary distribution in Santa Monica shows a broad spectrum of earnings. The most common salary range is around $34,700, with the highest earners making up to $210,200 annually. This range highlights the potential for growth and advancement in various sectors. Key industries contributing to these salaries include technology, healthcare, and entertainment. Each sector offers unique opportunities for professionals to thrive and achieve their career goals.
What are the best paying jobs in Santa Monica, CA?

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Pharmacist
Average Salary: $168,967
This role involves dispensing medications and providing health advice. Pharmacists work in local pharmacies and healthcare facilities. They ensure patients receive the right medication and dosage.
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Software Engineer
Average Salary: $165,159
Software engineers create and maintain software applications. They work in tech companies and startups. They write code, test software, and fix bugs to improve user experience.
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Finance Manager
Average Salary: $149,280
Finance managers oversee financial operations. They work in major corporations and financial institutions. They prepare budgets, analyze financial data, and make investment decisions.
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Product Manager
Average Salary: $146,594
Product managers lead the development of new products. They work in tech and consumer goods companies. They research market trends, define product features, and coordinate with teams to launch products.
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Clinical Supervisor
Average Salary: $138,893
Clinical supervisors manage healthcare staff. They work in hospitals and clinics. They ensure staff provide high-quality care and follow protocols. They also handle staff training and development.
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Nuclear Medicine Technologist
Average Salary: $135,883
These professionals operate imaging equipment. They work in hospitals and diagnostic centers. They prepare and administer radioactive drugs to patients for imaging purposes. They ensure patient safety and accurate results.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $125,215
Registered nurses provide patient care. They work in hospitals and clinics. They monitor patients, administer medications, and assist doctors. They play a crucial role in patient recovery and health management.
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Nurse Supervisor
Average Salary: $125,209
Nurse supervisors manage nursing staff. They work in hospitals and long-term care facilities. They oversee daily operations, ensure quality care, and handle staff scheduling. They also provide training and support to nurses.
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Speech Language Pathologist
Average Salary: $122,956
These specialists treat speech and language disorders. They work in schools, clinics, and hospitals. They assess patients, develop treatment plans, and provide therapy. They help patients improve communication skills.
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Traveling Nurse
Average Salary: $117,848
Traveling nurses provide care in various locations. They work in hospitals and clinics across different regions. They adapt to new environments quickly and provide essential patient care. They often travel for short-term assignments.
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What are the best paying jobs in Santa Monica, CA without a degree?

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Kitchen Manager
Average Salary: $74,905
Manage kitchen staff and operations. Oversee food preparation and quality. Work in upscale restaurants and hotels. Companies like Nobu and The Ivy offer great opportunities.
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Beauty Consultant
Average Salary: $48,142
Help customers choose beauty products. Provide skincare and makeup advice. Work in stores like Sephora and Ulta. Gain experience in a vibrant retail environment.
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Recreation Assistant
Average Salary: $43,828
Plan and lead recreational activities. Organize events for all ages. Work in community centers and parks. Enjoy a dynamic role that engages the community.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $43,254
Clean and maintain rooms in hotels and resorts. Ensure a high standard of cleanliness. Work for luxury hotels like the Fairmont Miramar. Gain experience in a prestigious environment.
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Server Assistant
Average Salary: $42,848
Support servers in busy dining areas. Take orders and serve food. Work in popular restaurants. Gain valuable experience in a fast-paced setting.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $41,494
Prepare ingredients and cook meals. Work in a fast-paced kitchen. Gain experience in high-end restaurants. Learn from skilled chefs in a dynamic environment.
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Server
Average Salary: $40,815
Serve food and drinks to customers. Take orders and provide excellent service. Work in trendy restaurants and cafes. Develop strong customer service skills.
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Barista
Average Salary: $39,113
Prepare and serve coffee and beverages. Work in coffee shops. Gain experience in a popular industry. Learn to create delicious drinks and interact with customers.
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Yard Worker
Average Salary: $37,909
Maintain lawns and gardens. Perform landscaping tasks. Work for property management companies. Gain hands-on experience in outdoor maintenance.
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Service Team Member
Average Salary: $37,722
Provide excellent customer service. Assist with various tasks. Work in a retail or hospitality setting. Develop strong interpersonal skills and work in a busy environment.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Santa Monica, CA?

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CyberCoders
Average Salary: $172,216
CyberCoders is a leading tech recruitment firm. They help companies find top tech talent. Their competitive salary reflects their commitment to attracting the best.
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Kite Pharma
Average Salary: $171,525
Kite Pharma is a biotech company focused on cancer treatments. They invest in research and development, which helps them offer high salaries to their employees.
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GoodRx
Average Salary: $161,738
GoodRx is a health tech company that helps people find affordable medications. They value their employees and offer competitive pay to attract top talent.
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Amazon Web Services
Average Salary: $156,590
Amazon Web Services (AWS) is a cloud computing giant. They provide essential services to businesses worldwide. Their high salaries reflect the importance of their work.
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AstraZeneca
Average Salary: $136,556
AstraZeneca is a global pharmaceutical company. They develop and sell medicines for various conditions. Their competitive pay helps them hire the best in the industry.
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Amazon.com
Average Salary: $132,860
Amazon is a retail and technology giant. They offer a wide range of products and services. Their high salaries reflect their commitment to innovation and customer service.
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Activision
Average Salary: $125,914
Activision is a video game developer and publisher. They create popular games like Call of Duty. Their competitive pay attracts top talent in the gaming industry.
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The Walt Disney Company
Average Salary: $123,460
The Walt Disney Company is a global entertainment leader. They produce movies, TV shows, and theme park experiences. Their high salaries reflect their industry-leading status.
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Red Bull
Average Salary: $103,322
Red Bull is an energy drink company known for its extreme sports sponsorships. They offer competitive pay to attract and retain talented employees.
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UCLA Health
Average Salary: $97,811
UCLA Health is a leading healthcare provider. They offer top-notch medical services and research. Their salaries reflect the high standards of their work.
How does the cost of living in Santa Monica, CA compare to the national average?

Santa Monica, CA, has a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average. The cost of living index for housing in Santa Monica is 282, which is 182% higher than the national average. This means that housing costs in Santa Monica are nearly three times higher than the average cost across the country. For those considering a move to Santa Monica, this significant increase in housing costs is a crucial factor to consider.
Other expenses in Santa Monica also exceed the national average. The cost of groceries is 15% higher, with an index of 115. Utilities are slightly above average at 4% higher, with an index of 104. Transportation costs are 22% higher, with an index of 122. While healthcare costs are slightly below average at 6% lower, with an index of 94, and miscellaneous costs are 19% higher, at an index of 119. These figures show that while some areas may offer slight savings, overall, living in Santa Monica involves higher expenses in most categories.