Backend Developer Salary in San Diego, CA
Backend Developer salaries in San Diego range from $101,500 to $304,500 in 2026. The mid-level median is $181,250, which is 45% above the national average.
Junior (0-2 yrs)
$101,500 – $145,000
Median: $123,250 · per year
Mid-Level (3-5 yrs)
$152,250 – $210,250
Median: $181,250 · per year
Senior (6+ yrs)
$217,500 – $304,500
Median: $261,000 · per year
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5 years
Entry level20+ years
Estimated Backend Developer Salary in San Diego, CA
3 sources$184,875–$257,375/year
Median: $221,125 per year (adjusted for San Diego cost of living)
Junior
$123,250
0-2 yrs
Mid-Level
$181,250
3-5 yrs
Senior
$261,000
6+ yrs
Cost of Living in San Diego
Cost of Living Levelvery high
Population1.4M
Top IndustriesBiotechnology, Defense & Military, Telecommunications
vs National Average+45%
Top Employers in San Diego
QualcommIlluminaNorthrop GrummanUC San Diego HealthGeneral Atomics
How San Diego Compares
| City | Mid-Level Median | Cost of Living |
|---|---|---|
| San Diego, CA | $181,250 | very high |
| New York, NY | $181,250 | very high |
| Los Angeles, CA | $181,250 | very high |
| Chicago, IL | $150,000 | high |
| Houston, TX | $125,000 | moderate |
| Phoenix, AZ | $125,000 | moderate |