Industrial Engineer Salary in San Diego, CA
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Engineering · COL Index: 160.2
$114,400
Median Salary
$122,050
Mean Salary
$71,411
COL-Adjusted
3,110
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $77,730 | $48,521 |
| 25th Percentile | $96,370 | $60,156 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $114,400 | $71,411 |
| 75th Percentile | $138,330 | $86,348 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $172,700 | $107,803 |
What Drives the Range
The $94,970 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Industrial 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 $114,400 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $71,411 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.