Electrical Engineer Salary in San Jose, CA
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Engineering · COL Index: 195.8
$186,920
Median Salary
$189,040
Mean Salary
$95,465
COL-Adjusted
4,750
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $114,800 | $58,631 |
| 25th Percentile | $158,560 | $80,981 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $186,920 | $95,465 |
| 75th Percentile | $223,080 | $113,933 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $270,088 | $137,941 |
What Drives the Range
The $155,288 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Electrical Engineer 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 $186,920 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $95,465 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.