Overview Salaries

Salaries in South Lake Tahoe, CA

Updated on Oct 10, 2026
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What is the average salary in South Lake Tahoe, CA?

The average salary in South Lake Tahoe, CA is $55,906 per year.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for South Lake Tahoe, CA, showing an average salary of $55,906 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for South Lake Tahoe, CA, showing an average salary of $4,659 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for South Lake Tahoe, CA, showing an average salary of $1,075 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for South Lake Tahoe, CA, showing an average salary of $27 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Job seekers exploring opportunities in South Lake Tahoe, CA, can expect a range of salary options. The average yearly salary stands at $55,906. This figure provides a useful benchmark for understanding the income potential available in the region. South Lake Tahoe offers competitive wages across various sectors, making it a favorable destination for many professionals.


The salary distribution varies, with key sectors showing significant earning potential. The largest percentage of the workforce, at 40.42%, earns around $33,500 annually. Other notable percentages include 26.66% earning approximately $44,944, and 9.55% earning about $56,387 per year. These figures highlight the diversity in income levels, providing job seekers with a clearer picture of what to expect in different roles and industries.

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What are the best paying jobs in South Lake Tahoe, CA?

South Lake Tahoe offers several top-paying job opportunities for skilled professionals. The highest-paying job is a Registered Nurse, with an average salary of $132,220. This role involves providing care to patients and working in a healthcare setting. Other well-paying positions include Maintenance Technicians and various types of Sales Associates, all offering competitive compensation. Maintenance Technicians earn around $48,526 annually, working to keep buildings and equipment in good condition. Sales Associates, whether in retail or valet positions, can earn between $45,321 and $36,477. These roles often involve customer interaction and sales, with opportunities for bonuses and commissions. These jobs provide good earning potential and career stability for those who pursue them.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in South Lake Tahoe, CA, highlighting Registered Nurse with the highest at $132,220 and Valet with the lowest at $36,477.

  1. Registered Nurse
    Average Salary: $132,220
    As a registered nurse, one can expect to work in hospitals and clinics. These professionals care for patients and help them recover from illnesses or surgeries. Companies like Tahoe Forest Hospital offer fulfilling roles in this area.
    Find Registered Nurse jobs in South Lake Tahoe, CA


  2. Maintenance Technician
    Average Salary: $48,526
    Maintenance technicians keep facilities running smoothly. They handle repairs and ensure everything works well. In this area, resorts and hotels look for skilled technicians. Companies like Marriott International provide opportunities to grow in this role.
    Find Maintenance Technician jobs in South Lake Tahoe, CA


  3. Retail Sales Associate
    Average Salary: $45,321
    Retail sales associates help customers find what they need. They work in stores and provide excellent service. Popular spots include stores at the Heavenly Village. The job involves interacting with people and assisting them with their shopping needs.
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  4. Cook
    Average Salary: $43,528
    Cooks prepare delicious meals in restaurants and hotels. They follow recipes and ensure food is safe and tasty. In this scenic location, diners seek fresh and flavorful dishes. Companies like Marriot offer many roles for aspiring cooks.
    Find Cook jobs in South Lake Tahoe, CA


  5. Housekeeping
    Average Salary: $42,871
    Housekeeping staff maintain cleanliness in hotels and homes. They clean rooms and common areas. This job requires attention to detail and a willingness to work hard. Companies such as Hilton Hotels offer positions to those seeking stability.
    Find Housekeeping jobs in South Lake Tahoe, CA


  6. Housekeeper
    Average Salary: $42,499
    Housekeepers ensure homes and hotels stay clean and tidy. They handle dusting, vacuuming, and laundry. This job is ideal for those who like to work independently. Companies often seek housekeepers to maintain high standards of cleanliness.
    Find Housekeeper jobs in South Lake Tahoe, CA


  7. Front Desk Associate
    Average Salary: $41,660
    Front desk associates greet guests and manage check-ins. They ensure guests have a pleasant experience. This role involves communication skills and customer service. Companies such as Hyatt Regency offer front desk positions in this area.
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  8. Sales Associate
    Average Salary: $38,416
    Sales associates help customers find products they need. They work in retail stores and provide excellent service. This job involves interacting with people and promoting items. Companies like REI offer sales positions in this scenic location.
    Find Sales Associate jobs in South Lake Tahoe, CA


  9. Valet
    Average Salary: $36,477
    Valets park and retrieve cars for customers. They provide courteous service and ensure vehicles are safe. This job requires reliability and a friendly demeanor. Hotels and resorts often need valets to assist guests with their vehicles.
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What are the best paying jobs in South Lake Tahoe, CA without a degree?

South Lake Tahoe, CA offers several high-paying jobs that do not require a degree. One top-paying role is a Recreation Assistant, which brings in an average salary of $54,281 annually. This role involves managing and organizing outdoor activities and events for visitors. Another well-paying job is a Line Cook, earning about $43,037 per year. Line cooks work in fast-paced kitchen environments, preparing meals quickly and efficiently. Housekeeping staff and restaurant crew members also secure good wages, earning around $42,871 and $41,397, respectively. These positions provide good opportunities for those seeking stable and rewarding work without needing a college degree.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in South Lake Tahoe, CA without a degree, highlighting Recreation Assistant with the highest at $54,281 and Server with the lowest at $36,156.

  1. Recreation Assistant
    Average Salary: $54,281
    Help guests enjoy outdoor activities year-round. Work with local adventure companies to organize events. Earn good pay while staying active outdoors.
    Find Recreation Assistant jobs in South Lake Tahoe, CA


  2. Line Cook
    Average Salary: $43,037
    Work in busy kitchens to prepare meals quickly. Cook tasty dishes for restaurants and hotels. Gain experience and learn culinary skills.
    Find Line Cook jobs in South Lake Tahoe, CA


  3. Housekeeping
    Average Salary: $42,871
    Keep guest rooms clean and tidy. Work in hotels and motels to ensure comfort. Enjoy flexible hours and meet new people.
    Find Housekeeping jobs in South Lake Tahoe, CA


  4. Restaurant Crew
    Average Salary: $41,397
    Help with various tasks in busy restaurants. Set up tables, take orders, and assist servers. Learn about customer service and teamwork.
    Find Restaurant Crew jobs in South Lake Tahoe, CA


  5. Barista
    Average Salary: $38,359
    Make delicious coffee drinks for customers. Work in coffee shops and cafes. Serve guests with a smile and learn coffee-making skills.
    Find Barista jobs in South Lake Tahoe, CA


  6. Dishwasher
    Average Salary: $36,875
    Clean dishes and kitchen equipment. Work in a fast-paced environment. Ensure everything is ready for the next service.
    Find Dishwasher jobs in South Lake Tahoe, CA


  7. Server
    Average Salary: $36,156
    Serve food and drinks to guests. Take orders and provide excellent service. Work in a lively environment and meet new people.
    Find Server jobs in South Lake Tahoe, CA

Which companies offer the top salaries in South Lake Tahoe, CA?

Job seekers in South Lake Tahoe, CA, can find attractive salaries at several top companies. Barton Health leads with an average salary of $97,934, making it the best-paying employer in the area. Following closely is the County of El Dorado, offering an average salary of $73,644, and Lake Tahoe Community College with $64,437. Potential employees have many options for earning competitive wages. Marriott Vacations Worldwide and Davidson Hospitality Group offer average salaries around $50,000, while Vail Resorts, Whole Foods Market, and Hilton Grand Vacations also provide respectable pay. Aimbridge Hospitality rounds out the list with an average salary of $38,834. Each of these companies provides opportunities for growth and stability in a variety of industries.
Graph displaying company salaries in South Lake Tahoe, CA, highlighting Barton Health with the highest at $97,934 and Aimbridge Hospitality with the lowest at $38,834.

  1. Barton Health
    Average Salary: $97,934
    Barton Health provides top-quality medical care. It is a leading healthcare provider in South Lake Tahoe, offering a range of services from emergency care to specialized medical services.


  2. County of El Dorado
    Average Salary: $73,644
    The County of El Dorado manages local government services. It offers diverse job opportunities in various departments, from law enforcement to public health.


  3. Lake Tahoe Community College
    Average Salary: $64,437
    Lake Tahoe Community College focuses on education and career training. It provides various programs and courses to help students achieve their academic and career goals.


  4. Marriott Vacations Worldwide
    Average Salary: $52,477
    Marriott Vacations Worldwide offers vacation ownership and management. It operates multiple resorts, providing seasonal and full-time employment opportunities.


  5. Davidson Hospitality Group
    Average Salary: $50,693
    Davidson Hospitality Group manages luxury hotels and resorts. It provides a dynamic work environment with career growth opportunities in the hospitality industry.


  6. Vail Resorts
    Average Salary: $50,460
    Vail Resorts operates world-class ski resorts and properties. It offers seasonal and year-round employment in various roles, from hospitality to management.


  7. Whole Foods Market
    Average Salary: $47,452
    Whole Foods Market specializes in natural and organic foods. It provides a variety of positions in retail and management, emphasizing healthy living.


  8. Hilton Grand Vacations
    Average Salary: $41,477
    Hilton Grand Vacations offers vacation ownership and resort management. It provides opportunities in various departments, ensuring excellent guest experiences.


  9. Aimbridge Hospitality
    Average Salary: $38,834
    Aimbridge Hospitality manages hotels and resorts. It offers diverse job opportunities in areas such as food and beverage, housekeeping, and guest services.

How does the cost of living in South Lake Tahoe, CA compare to the national average?

The cost of living index in South Lake Tahoe, CA, stands at a notable 123, which is 23% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This figure highlights that residents face expenses significantly above the national standard across various categories. For instance, housing costs alone are 45% higher than the national average, making this a key area where expenditures rise above typical levels.
Cost of living comparison graph for South Lake Tahoe, CA vs. Nationwide: housing 45% higher, groceries 10% higher, utilities 20% higher, transportation 15% higher, healthcare 5% higher, miscellaneous 30% higher.

The cost of living index in South Lake Tahoe, CA, reveals several important insights for job seekers evaluating potential relocations. Housing costs stand at 145, meaning expenses in this area are 45% higher than the nationwide average. This significant increase suggests that housing will likely be one of the more substantial expenditures for anyone moving to South Lake Tahoe.


Other essential expenses also show higher costs. Groceries cost 10% more at 110, while utilities follow closely at 20% higher with an index of 120. Transportation fares are also 15% above the national average, coming in at 115. Though healthcare costs remain relatively close to the average at 105, miscellaneous expenses, such as entertainment and dining, are 30% higher than average, with an index of 130. Altogether, these figures indicate that the overall cost of living in South Lake Tahoe is notably above the national average.

There are 176 job openings in South Lake Tahoe, CA, today!

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South Lake Tahoe, CA
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