Biotech, defense, military, perfect weather premium. Here's how Respiratory 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) | $79,400 | $60,400 | $103,300 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $98,700 | $75,000 | $128,400 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $113,500 | $86,300 | $147,600 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $136,200 | $103,500 | $177,100 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $154,300 | $117,300 | $200,700 |
Highest-paying metros for Respiratory Therapists — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the San Diego metro economy.
The average Respiratory Therapist salary in the San Diego metro is $113,500 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $86,300 to $147,600 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $187,300 or more.
Yes — San Diego pays -6% relative to the California state median for Respiratory 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: +32%. That puts San Diego among the stronger US markets for Respiratory Therapists — though cost of living in San Diego is also typically elevated.
In San Diego, the median Respiratory Therapist salary of $113,500 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Respiratory Therapists in San Diego start around $79,400, while seniors (10+ years) reach $136,200 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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