Teacher (K-12) Salary in San Diego, CA (2026)
Based on Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational wage data adjusted for San Diego cost of living. Last updated .
Median Annual Salary
$75,000
San Diego, California
Entry Level (10th pct.)
$46,000
0â2 years experience
25th Percentile
$59,000
Below average earner
Median (50th pct.)
$75,000
Typical earner
75th Percentile
$94,000
Above average earner
Top Earner (90th pct.)
$115,000
5+ years experience
Teacher (K-12) Salary Breakdown â San Diego, CA
The table below shows how Teacher (K-12) salaries in San Diego distribute across experience levels and pay percentiles in 2026.
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Monthly | Hourly (est.) | Profile |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10th | $46,000 | $3,833 | $22 | Entry-level, new graduate |
| 25th | $59,000 | $4,917 | $28 | 1â3 years experience |
| Median | $75,000 | $6,250 | $36 | Mid-career professional |
| 75th | $94,000 | $7,833 | $45 | Experienced professional |
| 90th | $115,000 | $9,583 | $55 | Senior / specialist |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), adjusted for San Diego regional cost of living. Data as of 2026.
Visual Salary Distribution
What Affects Teacher (K-12) Salaries in San Diego?
- Experience: Entry-level professionals earn significantly less than their senior counterparts. In San Diego, the gap between the 10th and 90th percentile is $69,000.
- Industry:Teacher (K-12)s working in high-demand industries such as technology, finance, and healthcare often command salaries above the median.
- Education & Certifications: Advanced degrees and relevant professional certifications can move your salary into the upper quartile.
- Company size: Larger organizations typically offer higher compensation packages, including bonuses and equity.
- Location within San Diego: Employers in downtown/central business districts or tech corridors often pay more than suburban offices.
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