Civil Engineer Salary in San Diego, California
The median civil engineer salary in San Diego, CA is $127,715 per year, which is 42.0% above the national median and 2.9% above the California state average.
Civil Engineer Pay in San Diego: What to Expect (2026)
San Diego offers a median civil engineer salary of $127,715, which is $3,598 above the California state average of $124,117. Compared to the national median of $89,940, San Diego pays above average for this role.
However, San Diego's cost of living index is 142%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $127,715 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $89,940. Housing, transportation, and food costs in San Diego should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for civil engineers in San Diego spans from $85,768 at the 10th percentile to $196,812 at the 90th percentile — a $111,044 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $88,040, while senior civil engineers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $184,600. As a major metro area with a population of 1,386,932, San Diego typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Civil Engineer Salary in San Diego by Experience
In San Diego, an entry-level civil engineer earns around $88,040, while experienced professionals earn up to $184,600 per year. The local cost of living index is 142% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in San Diego, CA
| Percentile | San Diego |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $85,768 |
| 25th Percentile | $103,944 |
| Median (50th) | $127,715 |
| 75th Percentile | $161,880 |
| 90th Percentile | $196,812 |
Civil Engineer Salary in Other California Cities
How to Become a Civil Engineer in San Diego
Education
Most civil engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. San Diego and the surrounding California area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, civil engineer employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in San Diego may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Civil Engineer Jobs in San Diego
Browse open civil engineer positions in San Diego, CA: