Biotech, defense, military, perfect weather premium. Here's how DevOps 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) | $136,000 | $103,300 | $176,800 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $169,000 | $128,400 | $219,700 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $194,300 | $147,700 | $252,600 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $233,100 | $177,200 | $303,100 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $264,200 | $200,800 | $343,500 |
Highest-paying metros for DevOps Engineers — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the San Diego metro economy.
The average DevOps Engineer salary in the San Diego metro is $194,300 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $147,700 to $252,600 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $320,600 or more.
Yes — San Diego pays -11% relative to the California state median for DevOps 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: +34%. That puts San Diego among the stronger US markets for DevOps Engineers — though cost of living in San Diego is also typically elevated.
In San Diego, the median DevOps Engineer salary of $194,300 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level DevOps Engineers in San Diego start around $136,000, while seniors (10+ years) reach $233,100 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 →