Paralegal Salary in San Diego, CA
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Legal · COL Index: 160.2
$77,550
Median Salary
$76,970
Mean Salary
$48,408
COL-Adjusted
3,690
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $44,980 | $28,077 |
| 25th Percentile | $52,660 | $32,871 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $77,550 | $48,408 |
| 75th Percentile | $97,040 | $60,574 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $107,410 | $67,047 |
What Drives the Range
The $62,430 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Paralegal 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 $77,550 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $48,408 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.