Civil Engineer Salary in San Diego, CA
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Engineering · COL Index: 160.2
$106,350
Median Salary
$116,680
Mean Salary
$66,386
COL-Adjusted
6,390
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $78,000 | $48,689 |
| 25th Percentile | $89,140 | $55,643 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $106,350 | $66,386 |
| 75th Percentile | $131,320 | $81,973 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $164,060 | $102,409 |
What Drives the Range
The $86,060 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Civil Engineer 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 $106,350 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $66,386 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.