Social Worker Salary in San Diego, CA

Updated on May 09, 2025
Position
City
Salary

How much does a Social Worker make in San Diego, CA?

The average salary for a Social Worker is $71,464 per year in San Diego, CA.

Social workers in San Diego, CA, enjoy a rewarding career with a competitive salary. On average, a social worker in this area earns around $71,460 per year. This figure can vary based on experience, education, and the specific area of social work. For those just starting out, salaries may begin around $35,930. As experience grows, so does the potential salary, with seasoned professionals earning up to $126,780 annually.

Factors influencing salary include the type of social work, such as clinical, school, or child welfare. Social workers who specialize in high-demand areas or have advanced degrees often see higher earnings. Additionally, those who work in private practices or larger organizations may earn more compared to those in non-profit settings. The diverse opportunities in San Diego provide a range of earning potentials for dedicated social workers.

Social Worker jobs in San Diego, CA

What are the highest paying cities for a Social Worker near San Diego, CA?

Job seekers looking for top-paying Social Worker positions near San Diego, CA, should consider La Jolla. This city offers the highest salary for Social Workers in the area. Nearby cities like Chula Vista and La Mesa also offer competitive wages. These locations provide excellent opportunities for those seeking rewarding careers in social work.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Social Worker jobs near San Diego, CA, highlighting La Jolla, CA with the highest at $99,773 and San Ysidro, CA with the lowest at $35,754.
  1. La Jolla, CA
    Average Salary: $99,773
    In La Jolla, professionals help those in need with a focus on mental health and family services. Many work with local nonprofits and healthcare providers. The community offers a supportive environment for those dedicated to making a difference.
    Find Social Worker jobs in La Jolla, CA


  2. Chula Vista, CA
    Average Salary: $67,588
    Chula Vista offers a range of opportunities for those who want to assist families and children. Many work with schools and community centers. The city's diverse population provides a rich environment for impactful work.
    Find Social Worker jobs in Chula Vista, CA


  3. La Mesa, CA
    Average Salary: $67,032
    La Mesa provides a chance to work closely with local families and youth. Many social workers collaborate with schools and local government. The community values support and care for its residents.
    Find Social Worker jobs in La Mesa, CA


  4. Alpine, CA
    Average Salary: $62,892
    In Alpine, social workers focus on helping families in need. Many work with local nonprofits and community organizations. The small-town feel allows for close community ties and impactful work.
    Find Social Worker jobs in Alpine, CA


  5. El Cajon, CA
    Average Salary: $58,847
    El Cajon offers opportunities to support families and children. Many work with local schools and community centers. The city's focus on community well-being creates a rewarding environment for social workers.
    Find Social Worker jobs in El Cajon, CA


  6. National City, CA
    Average Salary: $55,418
    National City provides a chance to assist those in need with a focus on family services. Many work with local nonprofits and government agencies. The community's dedication to support makes it a fulfilling place to work.
    Find Social Worker jobs in National City, CA


  7. Spring Valley, CA
    Average Salary: $44,782
    In Spring Valley, social workers help families and individuals facing challenges. Many work with local schools and community organizations. The city's focus on community support creates a positive work environment.
    Find Social Worker jobs in Spring Valley, CA


  8. Solana Beach, CA
    Average Salary: $40,860
    Solana Beach offers opportunities to support families and youth. Many work with local schools and community centers. The coastal setting provides a serene environment for impactful work.
    Find Social Worker jobs in Solana Beach, CA


  9. Poway, CA
    Average Salary: $36,460
    In Poway, social workers assist families and children with a focus on community support. Many work with local schools and nonprofits. The town's emphasis on community well-being creates a rewarding work environment.
    Find Social Worker jobs in Poway, CA


  10. San Ysidro, CA
    Average Salary: $35,754
    San Ysidro provides a chance to help families and individuals in need. Many work with local community organizations and nonprofits. The city's focus on support and care makes it a fulfilling place to work.
    Find Social Worker jobs in San Ysidro, CA

What are the best paying companies for a Social Worker in San Diego, CA?

Social workers in San Diego, CA, can find rewarding positions with top-paying companies. The US Department of Veterans Affairs offers the highest salary, making it an excellent choice for those in the field. Other notable employers include Scripps Health, Sharp HealthCare, and UC San Diego, all providing competitive compensation packages.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Social Worker jobs in San Diego, CA, highlighting US Department of Veterans Affairs with the highest at $120,957 and DaVita with the lowest at $77,096.
  1. US Department of Veterans Affairs
    Average Salary: $120,957
    The US Department of Veterans Affairs offers rewarding Social Worker jobs. They provide care for veterans in San Diego and other locations. Their work focuses on mental health, family support, and more.


  2. Scripps Health
    Average Salary: $106,754
    Scripps Health provides excellent opportunities for Social Workers. They work in hospitals and clinics across San Diego. Their role includes helping patients and families with health-related challenges.


  3. Sharp HealthCare
    Average Salary: $99,328
    Sharp HealthCare offers a variety of Social Worker positions. They operate in several San Diego locations. Their focus is on patient care, support, and community health.


  4. UC San Diego
    Average Salary: $85,871
    UC San Diego provides Social Worker jobs with a focus on research and education. They work in San Diego and other areas. Their role includes supporting patients and conducting important research.


  5. Rady Children's Hospital
    Average Salary: $84,057
    Rady Children's Hospital offers Social Worker jobs with a focus on pediatric care. They operate in San Diego. Their work involves supporting children and families through health challenges.


  6. Casey Family Programs
    Average Salary: $83,000
    Casey Family Programs provides Social Worker jobs with a focus on child welfare. They work in San Diego and other locations. Their role includes helping families and children in need.


  7. Aurora San Diego
    Average Salary: $79,115
    Aurora San Diego offers Social Worker jobs with a focus on community health. They operate in San Diego. Their work involves supporting patients and promoting health in the community.


  8. Regal Medical Group
    Average Salary: $78,350
    Regal Medical Group provides Social Worker jobs with a focus on patient care. They work in San Diego and other areas. Their role includes helping patients with health-related challenges.


  9. San Ysidro Health
    Average Salary: $77,965
    San Ysidro Health offers Social Worker jobs with a focus on community health. They operate in San Diego. Their work involves supporting patients and promoting health in the community.


  10. DaVita
    Average Salary: $77,096
    DaVita provides Social Worker jobs with a focus on patient care. They work in San Diego and other locations. Their role includes helping patients with health-related challenges.

Currently 6,191 Social Worker job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Social Worker in the US?

Learn what a Social Worker does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Social Worker today.
Position
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Social Worker
6,191 Job Openings