Biotech, defense, military, perfect weather premium. Here's how Physical Therapists 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) | $103,100 | $78,400 | $134,000 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $128,100 | $97,400 | $166,600 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $147,300 | $112,000 | $191,500 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $176,700 | $134,400 | $229,800 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $200,300 | $152,300 | $260,400 |
Highest-paying metros for Physical Therapists — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the San Diego metro economy.
The average Physical Therapist salary in the San Diego metro is $147,300 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $112,000 to $191,500 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $243,100 or more.
Yes — San Diego pays -3% relative to the California state median for Physical Therapists. 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 Physical Therapists — though cost of living in San Diego is also typically elevated.
In San Diego, the median Physical Therapist salary of $147,300 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Physical Therapists in San Diego start around $103,100, while seniors (10+ years) reach $176,700 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 →