Biotech, defense, military, perfect weather premium. Here's how Accountant / CPAs in San Diego get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the San Diego metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $79,600 | $60,500 | $103,600 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $99,000 | $75,200 | $128,700 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $113,800 | $86,500 | $148,000 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $136,500 | $103,800 | $177,600 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $154,700 | $117,600 | $201,200 |
Highest-paying metros for Accountant / CPAs — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the San Diego metro economy.
The average Accountant / CPA salary in the San Diego metro is $113,800 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $86,500 to $148,000 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $187,800 or more.
Yes — San Diego pays +1% relative to the California state median for Accountant / CPAs. Major metros typically concentrate higher-paying employers and command a wage premium over rural and small-city areas in the same state.
San Diego vs. national: +30%. That puts San Diego among the stronger US markets for Accountant / CPAs — though cost of living in San Diego is also typically elevated.
In San Diego, the median Accountant / CPA salary of $113,800 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Accountant / CPAs in San Diego start around $79,600, while seniors (10+ years) reach $136,500 or more.
Metro medians are useful benchmarks — but your exact number depends on your experience, education, and the specific employer. Run the free calculator for a personalized read.
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