Medical Assistant Salary in San Diego
2026 compensation data for Medical Assistant positions in San Diego, CA. Ranges from $36,000 (entry-level) to $76,000 (senior). Median: $52,000.
Median (Mid)
$52,000
$25/hr
vs National
+6%
US: $49,000
COL Index
140
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$76,000
Top of band
Salary Ranges by Experience Level
Detailed Compensation Breakdown
| Level | Annual Min | Annual Median | Annual Max | Hourly (Median) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–2 yrs) | $36,000 | $40,000 | $47,000 | $19.23/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $45,000 | $52,000 | $60,000 | $25/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $56,000 | $65,000 | $76,000 | $31.25/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in San Diego
A mid-level medical assistant earning $52,000 in San Diego has the same buying power as $37,000 in an average US city, after adjusting for the local cost of living (COL index 140).
Cost of living comparisons use a base of 100 (US national average). Higher index = higher housing, transport, and consumer prices.
About Medical Assistant Salaries in San Diego
The median medical assistant salary in San Diego, CA is $52,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 6% above the national median. With a cost of living index of 140 (national average = 100), San Diego offers a high cost of living that partially offsets the salary premium.
Entry-level medical assistants in San Diego can expect to earn between $36,000 and $47,000 (about $19.23/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $76,000 ($76K annually, or about $36.54/hour).
These figures represent base salary only and do not include bonuses, equity, or benefits, which can add 20–50% to total compensation — especially at technology companies and in competitive markets like San Diego.
Frequently Asked Questions: Medical Assistant Salary in San Diego
What is the average Medical Assistant salary in San Diego?+
The average Medical Assistant salary in San Diego is $52,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $40,000 and senior-level pay reaches $65,000.
How much does an entry-level medical assistant make in San Diego?+
Entry-level medical assistants in San Diego earn between $36,000 and $47,000, with a median of $40,000 per year (about $19.23/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a Medical Assistant in San Diego?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a Medical Assistant in San Diego earns roughly $19.23/hour at entry-level, $25/hour at mid-level, and $31.25/hour at senior-level.
Is the Medical Assistant salary in San Diego higher than the US average?+
Yes — Medical Assistant salaries in San Diego are about 6% higher than the US national median of $49,000.
Does this include bonuses or equity?+
No — these figures are base salary only. Total compensation (base + bonus + equity + benefits) is typically 20–50% higher, and can be 2–3x at top technology and finance employers.
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