Economist Salary in San Diego, CA
How much does a economist make in San Diego? Explore median, entry-level, and senior salaries adjusted for San Diego's cost of living.
Salary Breakdown by Experience Level
See how economist salaries break down across different pay periods in San Diego.
| Period | Entry Level | Median | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $60,575 | $102,220 | $140,079 |
| Monthly | $5,048 | $8,518 | $11,673 |
| Biweekly | $2,330 | $3,932 | $5,388 |
| Weekly | $1,165 | $1,966 | $2,694 |
| Hourly | $29 | $49 | $67 |
San Diego vs National Average
How San Diego's economist salaries compare to national figures.
Cost of Living in San Diego
About Economist
Overview
Research economic data and trends to inform policy and business decisions.
Education
Bachelor's degree in Economics; Master's or PhD common for research roles
Key Skills
Growth Rate
Expected job growth: +17% over the next decade
Compare Cities: Economist Salary
See Economist salaries in other top cities.
Financial Tools to Explore
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Economist Salary in San Diego, CA — Complete Guide
Median Salary Overview
The median salary for a economist in San Diego, CA is $102,220 per year, adjusted for the local cost of living index of 159. This figure reflects typical earnings for experienced professionals in this role, considering San Diego's unique economic conditions.
Salary Range and Experience Levels
Entry-level economist professionals in San Diego can expect to earn around $60,575 annually. As professionals gain experience, salaries typically increase, with senior-level economists earning approximately $140,079 per year. This represents a 131% increase from entry to senior level.
Cost of Living Adjustment
San Diego's cost of living index of 159 significantly impacts salary comparisons. As a higher cost-of-living city, salaries in San Diego are adjusted accordingly. This means that while the nominal salary may appear higher or lower than the national average of $91,970, the actual purchasing power must be considered in context.
Housing and Affordability
A significant portion of a economist's salary in San Diego typically goes toward housing. With a 1-bedroom apartment averaging $2,300 per month, housing represents about 27.0% of median salary. Financial experts generally recommend keeping housing expenses below 30% of gross income.
Career Growth and Opportunities
Economists are in growing demand across the United States, with an expected job growth of 17% over the next decade. In San Diego, this translates to increasing opportunities and potential for salary growth as demand for experienced professionals continues to rise.