Biotech, defense, military, perfect weather premium. Here's how Nurse Practitioner (NP)s 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) | $131,300 | $99,800 | $170,800 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $163,200 | $124,000 | $212,200 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $187,700 | $142,600 | $244,000 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $225,200 | $171,100 | $292,800 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $255,200 | $193,900 | $331,800 |
Highest-paying metros for Nurse Practitioner (NP)s — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the San Diego metro economy.
The average Nurse Practitioner (NP) salary in the San Diego metro is $187,700 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $142,600 to $244,000 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $309,700 or more.
Yes — San Diego pays -8% relative to the California state median for Nurse Practitioner (NP)s. 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: +33%. That puts San Diego among the stronger US markets for Nurse Practitioner (NP)s — though cost of living in San Diego is also typically elevated.
In San Diego, the median Nurse Practitioner (NP) salary of $187,700 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Nurse Practitioner (NP)s in San Diego start around $131,300, while seniors (10+ years) reach $225,200 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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