Electrical Engineer Salary in San Francisco, CA
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Engineering · COL Index: 179.6
$163,840
Median Salary
$161,200
Mean Salary
$91,225
COL-Adjusted
2,860
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $97,450 | $54,259 |
| 25th Percentile | $126,320 | $70,334 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $163,840 | $91,225 |
| 75th Percentile | $191,700 | $106,737 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $215,690 | $120,095 |
What Drives the Range
The $118,240 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Electrical Engineer positions in San Francisco, 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 Francisco, CA's cost-of-living index of 179.6 means that a $163,840 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $91,225 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.