Sam SmithSan Diego’s economy is powered by innovation, medical excellence, defense technology, and world-leading biotech research, making it one of the highest-earning regions in California. With military hubs, cutting-edge research centers, renowned hospitals, and a thriving technology scene, the city offers lucrative career paths across multiple industries. This guide breaks down the top 100 highest-paying jobs in San Diego, giving professionals, graduates, and job-seekers a clear look at where the top salaries are—and which skills drive earning power in this competitive market.
Highest-paying Jobs in San Diego – Rooted In Biotech, Defense, Healthcare, and Tech
1. Surgeon
Surgeons in San Diego earn top salaries due to the city’s elite medical systems, including UC San Diego Health and Scripps. They perform complex procedures across specialties such as cardiology, neurology, and orthopedics. Their role requires exceptional skill, strong decision-making, and years of specialized training. High patient volume, advanced research opportunities, and partnerships with teaching hospitals make San Diego a leading hub for surgical careers.
2. Psychiatrist
Psychiatrists are in high demand across San Diego due to rising mental health needs and the city’s large military and veteran population. They diagnose and treat mental health disorders, prescribe medications, and provide therapy. Many work with hospitals, private practices, and VA medical facilities. With growing awareness around mental wellness and behavioral health, psychiatrists here often command high compensation and benefit from research and clinical opportunities at major health institutions.
3. Anesthesiologist
Anesthesiologists play a critical role in surgery centers, trauma units, and outpatient facilities across San Diego’s top medical systems. They administer anesthesia, monitor patients during procedures, and ensure pain control and patient safety. With the region’s prestigious medical centers and high volume of elective and specialty surgeries, anesthesiologists benefit from both clinical opportunities and competitive salaries. Extensive training and precision make this one of the most respected and highest-earning medical careers locally.
4. Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
CEOs in San Diego lead operations across industries like biotech, hospitality, defense tech, and tourism. With companies ranging from startups to multinational corporations, they guide strategic direction, oversee growth, manage finances, and build partnerships. San Diego’s innovation-driven economy, combined with its university and research ecosystem, creates opportunities for visionary executives. CEOs here often rise through leadership roles, possess advanced degrees, and excel in strategy, communication, and organizational management.
5. Orthodontist
Orthodontists specialize in diagnosing and correcting dental alignment issues, offering braces, aligners, and corrective treatments. San Diego’s strong demand for dental services, wealthy communities, and large family population support high earnings in this field. Many orthodontists operate private practices, enhancing income potential through patient volume and cosmetic services. With California’s reputation for aesthetics and wellness, orthodontists thrive in a market where appearance and oral health are major priorities.
6. Dentist
Dentists in San Diego treat oral health conditions, perform restorations, and provide preventive care. The region’s diverse population, affluent neighborhoods, and strong emphasis on health and aesthetics drive steady patient demand. Many dentists run private practices or cosmetic dentistry offices, increasing earning potential. San Diego’s coastal lifestyle, medical tourism, and growing senior population create ongoing opportunities for high-quality dental services and specialized care.
7. Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
CFOs oversee financial operations for corporations, research firms, biotech startups, and major healthcare networks across San Diego. They manage budgets, revenue strategies, investments, and risk mitigation. With the city’s strong focus on innovation, research, and defense contracting, CFOs play a crucial role in funding growth and compliance. Professionals in this role often bring decades of experience, accounting expertise, and strategic financial planning skills, earning premium compensation for driving fiscal success.
8. Orthopedic Surgeon
Orthopedic surgeons treat injuries and disorders related to bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles. San Diego’s active lifestyle culture—surfing, hiking, and military activity—creates strong demand for orthopedic expertise. These specialists perform surgeries, rehabilitation planning, and sports-related procedures. Working in top hospitals and private clinics, orthopedic surgeons benefit from advanced medical facilities, specialized sports medicine centers, and partnerships with military medical programs across the region.
9. Chief Technology Officer (CTO)
CTOs lead technology development in San Diego’s fast-growing software, biotech tech, cybersecurity, and defense technology sectors. They oversee engineering teams, product architectures, cybersecurity protocols, and emerging technology adoption. With major research institutions and defense contractors like Northrop Grumman and Qualcomm in the region, CTOs enjoy high salaries and strong demand. Their leadership ensures innovation, system resilience, and competitive advancement in a rapidly evolving tech ecosystem.
10. Dermatologist
Dermatologists diagnose and treat skin conditions, provide cosmetic services, and perform medical procedures. San Diego’s sunny climate contributes to higher rates of skin-related concerns, including sun damage and skin cancer, increasing demand for specialists. Dermatologists benefit from both medical and cosmetic clientele, including laser treatments, injectables, and skincare services. High-income communities and health-conscious residents make dermatology one of the most profitable medical practices in the area.
11. Pharmacist
Pharmacists dispense medications, offer patient counseling, and collaborate with physicians on treatment plans. San Diego’s large hospital systems, military healthcare centers, and biotech community support strong demand for pharmaceutical expertise. Pharmacists may also work in clinical research and pharmaceutical manufacturing, reflecting the region’s innovation-focused economy. With a combination of clinical knowledge and patient interaction, they hold a respected and well-compensated healthcare role.
12. Aerospace Engineer
Aerospace engineers in San Diego design aircraft, satellites, and defense systems for major aerospace and military contractors. The region’s strong defense presence—including the U.S. Navy and private firms—drives innovation in navigation, propulsion, and aviation technologies. Engineers work on cutting-edge projects involving drones, surveillance systems, and aerospace communications. With strong collaboration between industry and universities, aerospace engineering remains a high-salary, high-impact career in the region.
13. Physician (General)
General physicians diagnose illnesses, manage chronic conditions, and coordinate patient care. In San Diego, they work across hospitals, clinics, military bases, and private practices. The city’s aging population, high wellness awareness, and large military community create diverse medical needs and career stability. With access to advanced health networks and medical research centers, physicians enjoy strong earning potential and professional growth opportunities across specialties and practice settings.
14. Software Engineering Manager
Software engineering managers lead development teams and oversee complex technology projects across San Diego’s tech scene, including cybersecurity, biotech software, and defense applications. They manage strategy, architecture decisions, and engineering processes. With thriving robotics, telecommunications, and AI sectors, these leaders ensure efficient product delivery and innovation. Experience in coding, system design, and team leadership, along with strong communication skills, drives high compensation in this growing industry.
15. Data Scientist
Data scientists use machine learning, statistical modeling, and data visualization to solve complex problems. In San Diego, they support biotech innovation, cybersecurity, defense systems, and healthcare analytics. They extract insights from large data sets, improve predictive models, and support strategic decision-making. With growth in biotech research and digital transformation, data scientists enjoy strong demand, competitive salaries, and opportunities to work on cutting-edge projects tied to science and national security.
16. Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
CRNAs administer anesthesia and manage pain control for surgical patients. They work closely with surgeons and anesthesiologists in hospitals and outpatient centers. San Diego’s top medical institutions and military healthcare systems employ CRNAs for trauma, surgery, and specialty procedures. Advanced training, critical thinking skills, and high responsibility make this one of the most lucrative nursing paths, offering autonomy and strong job stability in the region.
17. Petroleum Engineer
Petroleum engineers oversee energy exploration, drilling operations, and production technologies. While San Diego is not a major oil-production hub, companies with regional offices and research facilities in California still employ petroleum engineers at competitive salaries. They design systems to maximize extraction efficiency and safety. As energy companies diversify into advanced fuel technologies and sustainability initiatives, petroleum engineers with innovation-focused expertise remain in demand.
18. IT Director
IT Directors manage IT operations, cybersecurity programs, and infrastructure for organizations across healthcare, biotech, education, and tech sectors. In San Diego, they ensure secure networks, data systems, and software environments remain reliable and up-to-date. With increasing digital transformation and the region’s focus on research and national security, IT directors play a strategic role in maintaining secure and efficient technology systems while leading internal technical teams.
19. Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical engineers design and improve mechanical systems used in manufacturing, biotech devices, robotics, and defense equipment. San Diego’s mix of technology companies and research facilities provides strong opportunities for engineers skilled in CAD design, prototyping, and system optimization. Mechanical engineers collaborate with scientists and software teams on innovative products, benefiting from competitive salaries and diverse engineering applications in industrial, medical, and aerospace technologies.
20. Cybersecurity Engineer
Cybersecurity engineers protect data, networks, and digital infrastructure from cyber threats. In San Diego—home to the Navy’s cybersecurity command, defense firms, and tech startups—demand for skilled cyber experts is extremely high. They implement secure systems, monitor for breaches, and enhance protective protocols. As threats evolve and digital systems expand, cybersecurity engineers play a crucial role in regional and national security, earning strong salaries while working on mission-critical security solutions.
Top 100 Highest-Paying Jobs – San Diego, CA
| Rank | Job Title | Avg Salary |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cardiothoracic Surgeon | $520,000 |
| 2 | Neurosurgeon | $505,000 |
| 3 | Orthopedic Surgeon | $485,000 |
| 4 | Chief Medical Officer | $420,000 |
| 5 | Dermatologist | $402,000 |
| 6 | Radiologist | $395,000 |
| 7 | Anesthesiologist | $390,000 |
| 8 | Chief Executive Officer | $365,000 |
| 9 | Chief Technology Officer | $345,000 |
| 10 | Psychiatrist | $340,000 |
| 11 | Chief Financial Officer | $330,000 |
| 12 | Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon | $325,000 |
| 13 | Pediatric Surgeon | $320,000 |
| 14 | Data Scientist Director | $295,000 |
| 15 | Biotech Research Director | $290,000 |
| 16 | Corporate Lawyer (Partner) | $285,000 |
| 17 | Engineering Director | $275,000 |
| 18 | Defense Systems Program Manager | $260,000 |
| 19 | Pharmacist (Clinical / Hospital) | $255,000 |
| 20 | Senior Software Engineering Manager | $250,000 |
| 21 | Orthodontist | $248,000 |
| 22 | Chief Nursing Officer | $247,000 |
| 23 | Machine Learning Engineer Lead | $245,000 |
| 24 | Aerospace Engineer Senior Manager | $240,000 |
| 25 | Cardiology Physician | $238,000 |
| 26 | Tech Product Director | $232,000 |
| 27 | VP of Marketing | $230,000 |
| 28 | Patent Attorney | $229,000 |
| 29 | Biostatistician Lead | $228,000 |
| 30 | Navy Civilian Scientist | $226,000 |
| 31 | Cybersecurity Director | $225,000 |
| 32 | Hospital Administrator | $223,000 |
| 33 | AI Systems Architect | $222,000 |
| 34 | Senior Solutions Architect | $218,000 |
| 35 | General Practitioner Physician | $217,000 |
| 36 | Air Traffic Controller | $215,000 |
| 37 | Physician Assistant (Surgical) | $210,000 |
| 38 | IT Program Manager (Defense) | $208,000 |
| 39 | Lead UX Researcher | $205,000 |
| 40 | Senior Clinical Research Scientist | $204,000 |
| 41 | Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) | $202,000 |
| 42 | Finance Director | $200,000 |
| 43 | Petroleum / Energy Engineer | $198,000 |
| 44 | Robotics Engineer Lead | $197,000 |
| 45 | Actuary | $196,000 |
| 46 | Occupational Medicine Physician | $195,000 |
| 47 | Senior DevOps Architect | $194,000 |
| 48 | Senior Electrical Engineer | $192,000 |
| 49 | Investment Manager | $191,000 |
| 50 | VC / Private Equity Analyst | $190,000 |
| 51 | Senior Mechanical Engineer | $188,000 |
| 52 | Clinical Trial Program Manager | $187,000 |
| 53 | Biotech Quality Assurance Director | $186,000 |
| 54 | Software Engineering Lead | $185,000 |
| 55 | Construction Project Executive | $184,000 |
| 56 | Cybersecurity Engineer | $182,000 |
| 57 | Navy Contract Program Engineer | $181,000 |
| 58 | Senior Network Architect | $180,000 |
| 59 | Senior Data Engineer | $178,000 |
| 60 | Real Estate Development Manager | $176,000 |
| 61 | Senior Database Administrator | $175,000 |
| 62 | Clinical Psychologist (Specialist) | $174,000 |
| 63 | Senior Bioprocess Engineer | $173,000 |
| 64 | Aerospace Systems Engineer | $171,000 |
| 65 | Senior Compliance Manager | $169,000 |
| 66 | Financial Planner (High-Net-Worth) | $168,000 |
| 67 | Pharmacologist | $167,000 |
| 68 | Mechanical Systems Scientist | $166,000 |
| 69 | Physical Therapist (Advanced) | $165,000 |
| 70 | Senior Marine Engineer | $164,000 |
| 71 | Orthopedic PA / NP | $163,000 |
| 72 | Cloud Solutions Engineer | $162,000 |
| 73 | Biotechnology Sales Executive | $160,000 |
| 74 | Business Intelligence Manager | $159,000 |
| 75 | Speech-Language Pathologist (Medical) | $158,000 |
| 76 | Senior Environmental Engineer | $157,000 |
| 77 | Semiconductor Engineer | $156,000 |
| 78 | Senior Chemist (Pharma) | $155,000 |
| 79 | Nuclear Medicine Technologist | $154,000 |
| 80 | Bioinformatics Specialist | $152,000 |
| 81 | Senior Marine Biologist | $151,000 |
| 82 | Technical Program Manager | $150,000 |
| 83 | Senior Accountant (Corporate) | $148,000 |
| 84 | Systems Analyst Lead | $147,000 |
| 85 | Senior Logistics Manager (Defense) | $146,000 |
| 86 | AI Product Manager | $145,000 |
| 87 | Electrical Project Engineer | $144,000 |
| 88 | Licensed Clinical Social Worker (Hospital) | $142,000 |
| 89 | Senior Construction Estimator | $140,000 |
| 90 | Radiology Technologist (Advanced) | $139,000 |
| 91 | Quality Control Scientist | $138,000 |
| 92 | Marine Research Manager | $137,000 |
| 93 | Network Security Analyst | $136,000 |
| 94 | College Professor (STEM) | $134,000 |
| 95 | Registered Nurse (ICU / Trauma) | $132,000 |
| 96 | IT Systems Administrator Sr. | $131,000 |
| 97 | Digital Marketing Director | $130,000 |
| 98 | Construction Superintendent | $128,000 |
| 99 | Real Estate Broker | $126,000 |
| 100 | Dental Hygienist | $110,000 |
Closing
San Diego continues to stand out as a hub for advanced medicine, biotech innovation, defense technology, and high-growth tech careers, offering exceptional earning potential for highly skilled professionals. Whether you’re planning your career, exploring a career change, or seeking high-paying opportunities in this dynamic coastal city, understanding salary trends and growth industries is key to maximizing your future success. With strong demand across healthcare, science, and engineering, San Diego remains a promising destination for ambitious talent ready to thrive.