Dental Hygienist Salary in San Diego, CA
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Healthcare · COL Index: 160.2
$120,300
Median Salary
$123,560
Mean Salary
$75,094
COL-Adjusted
2,000
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $107,050 | $66,823 |
| 25th Percentile | $107,440 | $67,066 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $120,300 | $75,094 |
| 75th Percentile | $126,840 | $79,176 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $129,700 | $80,961 |
What Drives the Range
The $22,650 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Dental Hygienist 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 $120,300 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $75,094 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.