What Is the Average Income in San Diego?
Explore San Diego's average income. Understand the city's earning potential, economic influences, and what these figures truly mean.
Understanding income levels in a city offers insights into its economic health and residents’ financial realities. Average income figures provide a general snapshot, but a detailed look reveals nuances. This overview explores various income metrics relevant to San Diego, providing a clearer picture of what these numbers represent.
Key Income Metrics in San Diego
San Diego’s financial landscape includes several income metrics, each offering a distinct perspective on earnings. The median household income in San Diego was $104,321 in 2023. This figure represents the midpoint, meaning half of all households earn more and half earn less, providing a balanced view not skewed by extreme incomes.
In contrast, the average annual household income for San Diego stood at $139,707. This average is calculated by summing all household incomes and dividing by the number of households, which can be influenced by a small number of very high earners. This distinction highlights that while the average may appear higher, the median provides a more typical representation of what most households earn.
Beyond household figures, the per capita personal income in San Diego County was $79,122 as of 2023. This metric divides the total personal income of an area by its total population, including all individuals regardless of age or employment status. Data is compiled by federal agencies like the U.S. Census Bureau and the Bureau of Economic Analysis.
Economic Drivers of Income
San Diego’s income levels are influenced by its diverse, innovation-driven economy. Prominent industries include technology, biotechnology, and life sciences. The presence of major companies in these fields contributes to higher wage scales.
The defense and military sectors also play a role, alongside tourism and a growing healthcare presence. These sectors create demand for a skilled workforce, supporting the region’s income levels. For instance, the average hourly wage for all occupations in San Diego was $37.85 in May 2024, higher than the national average.
Education levels directly correlate with earning potential. Individuals with higher educational attainment, such as a bachelor’s degree, command greater earnings than those with only a high school diploma. The region’s educational institutions, including community colleges, contribute to the local economy by preparing individuals for high-demand jobs.
Income in Relation to Local Expenses
While San Diego boasts income figures that often surpass national averages, the purchasing power of these earnings is impacted by the city’s cost of living. The overall cost of living in San Diego is 45% to 46% higher than the national average. This difference is driven by housing expenses, which are more than double the national average.
For example, the median home price in San Diego was around $935,000 in July 2025, and the average monthly rent approaches $3,000. These housing costs mean a larger portion of income is allocated to shelter, leaving less for other necessities and discretionary spending. Despite higher wages, residents may find their disposable income stretched thin compared to less expensive areas.
Interpreting Income Statistics
Income statistics, such as averages and medians, provide insights but require interpretation. These reported figures represent pre-tax income, meaning they do not account for deductions like federal, state, and local income taxes, Social Security, or Medicare contributions. The actual take-home pay for individuals and households will be lower after these mandatory withholdings.
Income data represents a snapshot in time and can fluctuate due to economic shifts, industry changes, or demographic movements. Different data sources, such as the U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Economic Analysis, and Bureau of Labor Statistics, may report varying numbers due to differences in methodologies, survey samples, or reporting periods. These figures reflect broad economic trends rather than individual circumstances. An individual’s actual income experience can vary based on their specific profession, years of experience, household composition, and personal financial decisions.