Biotech, defense, military, perfect weather premium. Here's how Physician Assistant (PA)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) | $132,400 | $100,600 | $172,100 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $164,600 | $125,100 | $213,900 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $189,200 | $143,800 | $245,900 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $227,000 | $172,500 | $295,000 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $257,300 | $195,500 | $334,400 |
Highest-paying metros for Physician Assistant (PA)s — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the San Diego metro economy.
The average Physician Assistant (PA) salary in the San Diego metro is $189,200 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $143,800 to $245,900 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $312,200 or more.
Yes — San Diego pays -6% relative to the California state median for Physician Assistant (PA)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: +32%. That puts San Diego among the stronger US markets for Physician Assistant (PA)s — though cost of living in San Diego is also typically elevated.
In San Diego, the median Physician Assistant (PA) salary of $189,200 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Physician Assistant (PA)s in San Diego start around $132,400, while seniors (10+ years) reach $227,000 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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