Medical Assistant Salary in San Diego, CA
Medical Assistant salaries in San Diego range from $43,500 to $79,750 in 2026. The mid-level median is $58,725, which is 45% above the national average.
Junior (0-2 yrs)
$43,500 – $52,200
Median: $47,850 · per year
Mid-Level (3-5 yrs)
$53,650 – $63,800
Median: $58,725 · per year
Senior (6+ yrs)
$65,250 – $79,750
Median: $72,500 · per year
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5 years
Entry level20+ years
Estimated Medical Assistant Salary in San Diego, CA
Estimated†$59,450–$71,775/year
Median: $65,613 per year (adjusted for San Diego cost of living)
Junior
$47,850
0-2 yrs
Mid-Level
$58,725
3-5 yrs
Senior
$72,500
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 | $58,725 | very high |
| New York, NY | $58,725 | very high |
| Los Angeles, CA | $58,725 | very high |
| Chicago, IL | $48,600 | high |
| Houston, TX | $40,500 | moderate |
| Phoenix, AZ | $40,500 | moderate |