Biotech, defense, military, perfect weather premium. Here's how Surgeons 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) | $387,100 | $294,200 | $503,200 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $481,100 | $365,600 | $625,400 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $553,000 | $420,300 | $718,900 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $663,600 | $504,300 | $862,600 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $752,000 | $571,600 | $977,700 |
Highest-paying metros for Surgeons — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the San Diego metro economy.
The average Surgeon salary in the San Diego metro is $553,000 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $420,300 to $718,900 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $912,500 or more.
Yes — San Diego pays -6% relative to the California state median for Surgeons. 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 Surgeons — though cost of living in San Diego is also typically elevated.
In San Diego, the median Surgeon salary of $553,000 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Surgeons in San Diego start around $387,100, while seniors (10+ years) reach $663,600 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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