2024 wage data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Economists is a high-paying occupation in San Diego, CA, with a median annual salary of $102,220. Economistss in San Diego, CA earn $13,220 less (11%) than the national median of $115,440. There is significant earning potential — top earners make 3.
Economistss in San Diego, CA earn $13,220 less (11%) than the national median of $115,440.
Only 50 Economistss work in San Diego, CA. Consider nearby metro areas for more opportunities.
Cost of Living Consideration
When evaluating this salary, factor in San Diego, CA's cost of living. Housing, transportation, and taxes vary significantly between cities and can impact how far your paycheck goes.
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Monthly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $50,310 | $4,193 |
| 25th Percentile | $83,370 | $6,948 |
| Median | $102,220 | $8,518 |
| 75th Percentile | $137,740 | $11,478 |
| 90th Percentile | $180,920 | $15,077 |
| Mean (Average) | $114,140 | $9,512 |
| Metro Area | Median Salary |
|---|---|
| New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA | $168,850 |
| Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV | $157,980 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Berkeley, CA | $134,410 |
| Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, TX | $131,160 |
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA | $129,280 |
| Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Alpharetta, GA | $127,220 |
| Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, MD | $125,630 |
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN-WI | $123,140 |
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD | $121,820 |
| Richmond, VA | $118,610 |
| Occupation | Median Salary |
|---|---|
| Natural Sciences Managers | $199,590 |
| Computer and Information Systems Managers | $193,370 |
| Architectural and Engineering Managers | $185,550 |
| Marketing Managers | $171,590 |
| Computer Hardware Engineers | $169,230 |
| Financial Managers | $168,300 |
| Managers, All Other | $167,000 |
| Lawyers | $165,000 |
| Nurse Practitioners | $162,030 |
| Medical and Health Services Managers | $160,640 |
Estimate your after-tax income. Compare your real purchasing power across different states and salary levels.
Annual Take-Home
$80,071
Monthly
$6,673
Bi-Weekly
$3,080
Effective Tax Rate
21.7%
* Estimate only. Does not include local taxes, deductions, or credits. Need help with your finances? Consider consulting a certified financial planner or exploring high-yield savings accounts to maximize your take-home pay.
The cost of living in San Diego, CA is 11.9% above the national average (index: 111.9). See full cost breakdown →
After adjusting for local cost of living, the purchasing power of San Diego, CA salaries is equivalent to $85,468 in an average-cost US city.
Data verified March 2026 · Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
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Considering a move for this role? Compare cost of living in San Diego, CAto make an informed decision. Don't forget to factor in moving costs, renters insurance, and state income tax differences when evaluating your total compensation package.