Physician Assistant Salary in San Diego, CA
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Healthcare · COL Index: 160.2
$153,530
Median Salary
$151,230
Mean Salary
$95,836
COL-Adjusted
1,100
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $95,870 | $59,844 |
| 25th Percentile | $122,140 | $76,242 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $153,530 | $95,836 |
| 75th Percentile | $172,060 | $107,403 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $213,880 | $133,508 |
What Drives the Range
The $118,010 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Physician Assistant 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 $153,530 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $95,836 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.