What is the average salary in South San Francisco, CA?
Job seekers in South San Francisco, CA, enjoy competitive salaries across various industries. The average yearly salary stands at $87,794, reflecting a strong job market. This average provides a clear benchmark for professionals looking to assess their earning potential in the area.
The salary distribution in South San Francisco varies widely. Key industries include technology, biotechnology, and healthcare, with top earners in these sectors making upwards of $204,736 annually. Here is a look at the salary breakdown:
- 39.88% earn up to $36,300
- 17.16% earn between $36,300 and $57,355
- 8.95% earn between $57,355 and $78,409
- 7.68% earn between $78,409 and $99,464
- 5.54% earn between $99,464 and $120,518
- 4.38% earn between $120,518 and $141,573
- 3.91% earn between $141,573 and $162,627
- 2.33% earn between $162,627 and $183,682
- 2.63% earn between $183,682 and $204,736
- 1.56% earn between $204,736 and $225,791
- 0.97% earn above $225,791
What are the best paying jobs in South San Francisco, CA?

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Director
Average Salary: $195,782
This role leads the company and its teams. Key responsibilities include strategic planning and decision-making. Directors often work in industries such as biotech and finance, known for their robust presence in this area.
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Software Engineer
Average Salary: $179,655
They design and develop software applications. Work often involves collaboration with teams and clients. South San Francisco has many tech companies that value skilled engineers.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $142,368
RNs provide patient care and education. This role is crucial in hospitals and clinics. The city’s healthcare facilities often seek dedicated nursing professionals.
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Technical Project Lead
Average Salary: $141,312
They manage technical projects from start to finish. This position requires strong communication skills. In this tech-driven city, leads are vital for driving innovation and projects.
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Scientist
Average Salary: $126,336
Scientists conduct research and experiments. Their work supports advancements in biotech and pharmaceuticals. Many companies in the area rely on their expertise for research and development.
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Research Associate
Average Salary: $88,002
They assist scientists in conducting experiments and analyzing data. This role is key in labs and research institutions. Associates support groundbreaking work in science and technology.
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Operations Manager
Average Salary: $86,172
Operations Managers oversee daily business operations. They ensure efficiency and productivity. This role is crucial in various industries, including manufacturing and logistics.
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Sales Manager
Average Salary: $86,052
They lead sales teams and develop strategies. This role is important for driving business growth. Sales Managers work in diverse sectors, from tech to consumer goods.
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Outside Sales Representative
Average Salary: $79,913
They sell products directly to clients. This role involves building relationships and meeting sales targets. Sales Reps often work in industries like tech and consumer products.
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Maintenance Technician
Average Salary: $65,871
They perform repairs and maintenance on equipment. This role is essential for keeping facilities running smoothly. Technicians often work in manufacturing and biotech companies.
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What are the best paying jobs in South San Francisco, CA without a degree?

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Line Cook
Average Salary: $45,488
This role works in fast-paced kitchens. Tasks include preparing ingredients and cooking menu items. Many local restaurants offer this position.
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Server
Average Salary: $44,943
Servers interact with customers and take orders. They also serve food and drinks to tables. Many hotels and dining establishments have this role.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $42,780
Housekeeping staff clean and maintain hotel rooms. They also ensure all areas are tidy. Several hotels and lodging businesses offer these jobs.
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Barista
Average Salary: $41,923
Baristas prepare drinks at coffee shops. They take orders and create beverages. Local cafes and coffee chains hire for this position.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $40,164
This role involves cleaning dishes and kitchen tools. It also includes maintaining a clean kitchen area. Restaurants and cafes hire for these jobs.
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Service Team Member
Average Salary: $39,453
Service team members assist customers and handle various tasks. They also help with sales and customer service. This position is available at retail stores and restaurants.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in South San Francisco, CA?

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Calico Life Sciences
Average Salary: $200,985
Calico Life Sciences, a research company founded by Alphabet, focuses on longevity and age-related diseases. They offer competitive salaries and benefits.
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Denali Therapeutics
Average Salary: $198,458
Denali Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing treatments for neurological diseases. They provide a rewarding work environment and good compensation.
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AbbVie
Average Salary: $185,303
AbbVie is a global biopharmaceutical company that specializes in research-based treatments. They offer excellent salaries and career development opportunities.
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Zipline
Average Salary: $175,221
Zipline provides medical delivery services using drones. They focus on efficiency and innovation and offer competitive compensation packages.
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Merck
Average Salary: $169,797
Merck is a leading pharmaceutical company that develops and manufactures medicines. They provide a stable career with good salaries and benefits.
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Concentra
Average Salary: $161,770
Concentra offers occupational health services. They aim to keep workplaces safe and healthy, providing good salaries for their staff.
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Twist Bioscience
Average Salary: $134,857
Twist Bioscience specializes in synthetic DNA and genomics. They focus on innovative solutions and offer attractive compensation packages.
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Thermo Fisher Scientific
Average Salary: $115,433
Thermo Fisher Scientific is a global leader in scientific services and solutions. They provide a range of benefits and competitive salaries.
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BEPC Inc. - Business Excellence Professional Consulting
Average Salary: $103,774
BEPC Inc. offers consulting services to improve business practices. They provide good salaries and a supportive work environment.
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South San Francisco Unified School District
Average Salary: $91,429
The South San Francisco Unified School District offers educational services to students. They provide stable employment and reasonable salaries.
How does the cost of living in South San Francisco, CA compare to the national average?

Job seekers considering South San Francisco, CA, will find that the cost of living varies significantly from the nationwide average, which is set at 100. Housing stands out as the most expensive category, with an index of 230. This means housing costs are 130% higher than the national average. Prospective residents should budget carefully, as housing alone accounts for more than double the cost seen in other areas.
Other expenses also exceed the national average in South San Francisco. Groceries have an index of 120, indicating a 20% increase in food costs. Utilities are 14% higher, with an index of 114, while transportation costs are 15% above average at 115. Healthcare costs, often a significant concern for job seekers, are 30% higher at 130. Miscellaneous expenses, which can include entertainment and personal care, are also 25% higher, with an index of 125. Overall, South San Francisco presents higher costs across multiple essential areas compared to the national average.



