Scientist Scientist Salary in San Francisco, CA

Scientist Salary in San Francisco, CA

Updated on Jun 10, 2026
Position
City
Salary

How much does a Scientist make in San Francisco, CA?

The average salary for a Scientist is $144,882 per year in San Francisco, CA.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Scientist jobs in San Francisco, CA, showing an average salary of $144,882 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Scientist jobs in San Francisco, CA, showing an average salary of $12,074 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Scientist jobs in San Francisco, CA, showing an average salary of $2,786 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Scientist jobs in San Francisco, CA, showing an average salary of $70 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Scientists in San Francisco, CA, enjoy a strong average salary. On average, they make $144,882 each year. This figure reflects the dedication and skill required for scientific roles in the area.

The salary range for scientists shows a broad spectrum. The lowest 10% earn around $86,530. Meanwhile, the highest 10% earn above $245,000. This diversity highlights the potential for growth and advancement in the field. Some of the top-paying industries for scientists in San Francisco include technology and pharmaceuticals. These sectors value scientific expertise highly, leading to higher salaries. Additionally, experience and specialization can significantly boost earning potential.

Scientist jobs in San Francisco, CA
View all Scientist jobs in San Francisco, CA

What are the highest paying cities for a Scientist near San Francisco, CA?

High-paying scientist jobs await those willing to relocate to areas near San Francisco, CA. Among the cities listed, Livermore stands out with the highest average salary at $186,236. Santa Clara and San Jose also offer competitive salaries, making them excellent choices for scientists seeking lucrative opportunities. Choosing a location with a higher average salary can improve financial stability and career growth. Santa Clara and San Jose follow closely behind Livermore, with averages of $154,592 and $153,058 respectively. These cities provide a mix of industries and research opportunities that can significantly benefit a scientist's career.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Scientist jobs near San Francisco, CA, highlighting Livermore, CA with the highest at $186,236 and Redwood City, CA with the lowest at $131,561.

  1. Livermore, CA
    Average Salary: $186,236
    In Livermore, working as a Scientist often involves roles at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. This environment fosters collaboration on national security projects. The city offers a vibrant community and is known for its commitment to scientific research and innovation.
    Find Scientist jobs in Livermore, CA


  2. Santa Clara, CA
    Average Salary: $154,592
    Santa Clara attracts Scientists to its tech-heavy landscape. With companies like Intel and Applied Materials leading the way, professionals here contribute to cutting-edge advancements. The Silicon Valley vibe provides a dynamic setting for those who thrive in a fast-paced tech environment.
    Find Scientist jobs in Santa Clara, CA


  3. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $153,058
    San Jose stands out as a hub for Silicon Valley companies, offering numerous opportunities for Scientists. Working for tech giants such as Google and Cisco allows for impactful research and development. The city's energetic atmosphere and diverse culture make it an exciting place for scientists.
    Find Scientist jobs in San Jose, CA


  4. Oakland, CA
    Average Salary: $141,761
    Oakland presents a unique blend of scientific research and cultural richness. Institutions like the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory offer groundbreaking work in various scientific fields. Professionals in Oakland benefit from a vibrant community and a supportive environment for academic and industrial research.
    Find Scientist jobs in Oakland, CA


  5. Palo Alto, CA
    Average Salary: $140,730
    Palo Alto is home to a high concentration of tech companies, including Hewlett-Packard and Tesla. Scientists here work on projects that push the boundaries of technology and innovation. The city offers a pleasant lifestyle with its beautiful parks and cultural amenities.
    Find Scientist jobs in Palo Alto, CA


  6. Menlo Park, CA
    Average Salary: $139,827
    Menlo Park, renowned for its tech legacy, hosts companies like Facebook and Google. Scientists in Menlo Park engage in cutting-edge research and development. The city’s innovative spirit and strong community make it an attractive place for scientific endeavors.
    Find Scientist jobs in Menlo Park, CA


  7. Berkeley, CA
    Average Salary: $137,781
    Berkeley provides a fertile ground for scientific exploration with the presence of the University of California. Scientists in Berkeley work on a wide range of research projects, from environmental science to engineering. The city’s intellectual atmosphere and progressive values add to its appeal.
    Find Scientist jobs in Berkeley, CA


  8. San Mateo, CA
    Average Salary: $133,208
    In San Mateo, Scientists enjoy working for companies like Oracle and Genentech. The city’s strong biotech sector offers diverse opportunities in research and development. Professionals benefit from a high quality of life and access to cultural and recreational activities.
    Find Scientist jobs in San Mateo, CA


  9. Mountain View, CA
    Average Salary: $132,840
    Mountain View is another tech powerhouse, home to Google and various biotech firms. Scientists here have the chance to work on transformative technologies and contribute to groundbreaking research. The city’s welcoming community and vibrant atmosphere enhance the professional experience.
    Find Scientist jobs in Mountain View, CA


  10. Redwood City, CA
    Average Salary: $131,561
    Redwood City offers a blend of tech and life sciences opportunities for Scientists. Companies like Exagen Diagnostics and Bio-Rad Laboratories provide a platform for impactful research. The city’s natural beauty and strong community spirit create a fulfilling work environment.
    Find Scientist jobs in Redwood City, CA

What are the best paying companies for a Scientist in San Francisco, CA?

San Francisco offers many great companies for scientists seeking high-paying jobs. RBC leads the pack with an average salary of $185,625. Genentech follows closely with $163,637. Both companies offer competitive benefits and career growth opportunities. Other top-paying companies include Uber with $157,000, Sutter Health with $136,864, and Amgen with $129,167. These companies provide a strong foundation for a successful career in science.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Scientist jobs in San Francisco, CA, highlighting RBC with the highest at $185,625 and St Mary's Medical Center with the lowest at $76,603.

  1. RBC
    Average Salary: $185,625
    RBC offers exciting Scientist roles in San Francisco. The company operates globally and focuses on research and development. It provides a chance for career growth and innovation.


  2. Genentech
    Average Salary: $163,637
    Genentech provides diverse opportunities for scientists in San Francisco. They focus on biotechnology and operate worldwide. This is a great place for those seeking to make a real impact in the biotech industry.


  3. Uber
    Average Salary: $157,000
    Uber offers innovative roles for scientists in San Francisco. The company operates globally and is known for its work in transportation technology. It is an excellent place for those interested in cutting-edge tech.


  4. Sutter Health
    Average Salary: $136,864
    Sutter Health provides rewarding Scientist jobs in San Francisco. They operate in California and focus on healthcare. It is a great place for those who want to work in the medical field.


  5. Amgen
    Average Salary: $129,167
    Amgen offers exciting Scientist positions in San Francisco. They operate worldwide and focus on biopharmaceuticals. It is an excellent place for those interested in biotech research.


  6. CHINESE HOSPITAL
    Average Salary: $128,348
    CHINESE HOSPITAL provides rewarding Scientist roles in San Francisco. They operate locally and focus on patient care and medical research. It is a great place for those dedicated to healthcare.


  7. University of California - San Francisco
    Average Salary: $126,483
    University of California - San Francisco offers diverse Scientist opportunities in San Francisco. They focus on education and research. It is an excellent place for those who want to work in academia.


  8. Eli Lilly
    Average Salary: $106,042
    Eli Lilly offers rewarding Scientist roles in San Francisco. They operate globally and focus on pharmaceuticals. It is a great place for those interested in drug development.


  9. Thermo Fisher Scientific
    Average Salary: $101,453
    Thermo Fisher Scientific offers exciting Scientist positions in San Francisco. They operate worldwide and focus on scientific instruments and services. It is a great place for those interested in lab technology.


  10. St Mary's Medical Center
    Average Salary: $76,603
    St Mary's Medical Center provides rewarding Scientist jobs in San Francisco. They operate locally and focus on patient care and medical research. It is a great place for those dedicated to healthcare.

Currently 680 Scientist job openings, nationwide.

View Scientist Jobs in San Francisco, CA

How's the job market for a Scientist in the US?

Learn what a Scientist does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Scientist today.
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