Elementary School Teacher Salary in San Diego, CA
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Education · COL Index: 160.2
$78,430
Median Salary
$86,960
Mean Salary
$48,958
COL-Adjusted
11,720
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $60,870 | $37,996 |
| 25th Percentile | $65,000 | $40,574 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $78,430 | $48,958 |
| 75th Percentile | $102,200 | $63,795 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $119,310 | $74,476 |
What Drives the Range
The $58,440 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Elementary School Teacher 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 $78,430 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $48,958 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.