Biotech, defense, military, perfect weather premium. Here's how Biomedical Engineers 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) | $101,300 | $77,000 | $131,800 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $125,900 | $95,700 | $163,800 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $144,800 | $110,100 | $188,300 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $173,700 | $132,100 | $225,900 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $196,900 | $149,700 | $256,000 |
Highest-paying metros for Biomedical Engineers — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the San Diego metro economy.
The average Biomedical Engineer salary in the San Diego metro is $144,800 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $110,100 to $188,300 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $238,900 or more.
Yes — San Diego pays +0% relative to the California state median for Biomedical Engineers. 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 Biomedical Engineers — though cost of living in San Diego is also typically elevated.
In San Diego, the median Biomedical Engineer salary of $144,800 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Biomedical Engineers in San Diego start around $101,300, while seniors (10+ years) reach $173,700 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.
Get my personal salary report →