Architect Salary in San Diego, CA
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Engineering · COL Index: 160.2
$118,410
Median Salary
$127,740
Mean Salary
$73,914
COL-Adjusted
1,450
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $78,870 | $49,232 |
| 25th Percentile | $82,820 | $51,698 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $118,410 | $73,914 |
| 75th Percentile | $149,860 | $93,546 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $178,620 | $111,498 |
What Drives the Range
The $99,750 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Architect positions in San Diego, CA reflects several factors. Entry-level professionals and those in smaller organizations typically fall in the lower quartiles, while senior specialists, those with in-demand certifications, and employees at large enterprises command salaries in the upper percentiles.
San Diego, CA's cost-of-living index of 160.2 means that a $118,410 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $73,914 in an average-cost U.S. city. Despite the higher cost of living, this metro area offers a deep talent pool and typically higher total compensation when including equity and bonuses.