Electrical Engineer Salary in San Diego, CA
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Engineering · COL Index: 160.2
$128,750
Median Salary
$137,260
Mean Salary
$80,368
COL-Adjusted
2,200
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $79,550 | $49,657 |
| 25th Percentile | $97,530 | $60,880 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $128,750 | $80,368 |
| 75th Percentile | $165,710 | $103,439 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $209,470 | $130,755 |
What Drives the Range
The $129,920 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Electrical 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 $128,750 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $80,368 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.