Emergency Medicine Physician Salary in San Diego, California
The median emergency medicine physician salary in San Diego, CA is $465,000 per year, which is 50.0% above the national median and 2.7% above the California state average.
Emergency Medicine Physician Pay in San Diego: What to Expect (2026)
San Diego offers a median emergency medicine physician salary of $465,000, which is $12,400 above the California state average of $452,600. Compared to the national median of $310,000, 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 $465,000 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $327,465. Housing, transportation, and food costs in San Diego should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for emergency medicine physicians in San Diego spans from $270,000 at the 10th percentile to $712,500 at the 90th percentile — a $442,500 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $277,500, while senior emergency medicine physicians with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $690,000. 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.
Emergency Medicine Physician Salary in San Diego by Experience
In San Diego, an entry-level emergency medicine physician earns around $277,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $690,000 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 | $270,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $360,000 |
| Median (50th) | $465,000 |
| 75th Percentile | $600,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $712,500 |
Emergency Medicine Physician Salary in Other California Cities
How to Become a Emergency Medicine Physician in San Diego
Education
Most emergency medicine physician positions require a doctoral degree. San Diego and the surrounding California area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, emergency medicine physician employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in San Diego may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Emergency Medicine Physician Jobs in San Diego
Browse open emergency medicine physician positions in San Diego, CA: