Occupational Health & Safety Specialist Salary in San Diego, California
The median occupational health & safety specialist salary in San Diego, CA is $111,811 per year, which is 42.0% above the national median and 2.9% above the California state average.
Occupational Health & Safety Specialist Pay in San Diego: What to Expect (2026)
San Diego offers a median occupational health & safety specialist salary of $111,811, which is $3,150 above the California state average of $108,661. Compared to the national median of $78,740, 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 $111,811 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $78,740. Housing, transportation, and food costs in San Diego should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for occupational health & safety specialists in San Diego spans from $68,160 at the 10th percentile to $173,240 at the 90th percentile — a $105,080 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $71,000, while senior occupational health & safety specialists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $167,560. 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.
Occupational Health & Safety Specialist Salary in San Diego by Experience
In San Diego, an entry-level occupational health & safety specialist earns around $71,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $167,560 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 | $68,160 |
| 25th Percentile | $88,040 |
| Median (50th) | $111,811 |
| 75th Percentile | $142,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $173,240 |
Occupational Health & Safety Specialist Salary in Other California Cities
How to Become a Occupational Health & Safety Specialist in San Diego
Education
Most occupational health & safety specialist positions require a bachelor's degree. San Diego and the surrounding California area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, occupational health & safety specialist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in San Diego may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Occupational Health & Safety Specialist Jobs in San Diego
Browse open occupational health & safety specialist positions in San Diego, CA: