Public Relations Specialist Salary in San Diego, CA
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Creative · COL Index: 160.2
$77,290
Median Salary
$85,250
Mean Salary
$48,246
COL-Adjusted
2,360
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $47,720 | $29,788 |
| 25th Percentile | $60,310 | $37,647 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $77,290 | $48,246 |
| 75th Percentile | $101,920 | $63,620 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $129,060 | $80,562 |
What Drives the Range
The $81,340 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Public Relations Specialist 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 $77,290 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $48,246 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.