Architect Salary in San Jose, CA
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Engineering · COL Index: 195.8
$134,200
Median Salary
$152,210
Mean Salary
$68,539
COL-Adjusted
560
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $81,180 | $41,461 |
| 25th Percentile | $99,600 | $50,868 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $134,200 | $68,539 |
| 75th Percentile | $185,450 | $94,714 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $220,720 | $112,727 |
What Drives the Range
The $139,540 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Architect positions in San Jose, 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 Jose, CA's cost-of-living index of 195.8 means that a $134,200 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $68,539 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.