Biotech, defense, military, perfect weather premium. Here's how Medical Assistants 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) | $44,400 | $33,800 | $57,800 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $55,200 | $42,000 | $71,800 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $63,500 | $48,300 | $82,600 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $76,200 | $57,900 | $99,100 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $86,300 | $65,600 | $112,300 |
Highest-paying metros for Medical Assistants — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the San Diego metro economy.
The average Medical Assistant salary in the San Diego metro is $63,500 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $48,300 to $82,600 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $104,900 or more.
Yes — San Diego pays -3% relative to the California state median for Medical Assistants. 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: +31%. That puts San Diego among the stronger US markets for Medical Assistants — though cost of living in San Diego is also typically elevated.
In San Diego, the median Medical Assistant salary of $63,500 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Medical Assistants in San Diego start around $44,400, while seniors (10+ years) reach $76,200 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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