Architectural and Engineering Managers Salary in San Diego, CA
BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad, CA
Compare Architectural and Engineering Managers salary & buying power
Type a city below to see how San Diego, CA stacks up on salary and cost of living.
In San Diego, CA, the typical Architectural and Engineering Manager earns a median annual salary of $185,550, which is notably higher than the national median for this occupation at $167,740. This substantial difference highlights San Diego's competitive edge in offering lucrative opportunities within this field. When compared to local household income, which stands at an area median of $102,285, the earnings of an Architectural and Engineering Manager are significantly above average, nearly doubling that figure. This disparity underscores the specialized skills and responsibilities required for managerial roles in architecture and engineering, making them a high-value asset within the San Diego job market.
Entry-level workers in this field can expect to earn around $134,120 annually, based on the 10th percentile salary, while those with significant experience and advanced credentials may reach up to $217,430 at the 75th percentile. The difference in earnings between entry-level and experienced professionals is driven by factors such as years of experience, level of education, specific expertise, and the size or prestige of the employer. Experienced workers often command higher salaries due to their accumulated knowledge, proven track record, and ability to manage complex projects effectively. Additionally, the competitive nature of San Diego's job market, with its relatively low unemployment rate of 4.30%, further incentivizes employers to offer attractive compensation packages to retain top talent in this specialized field.
Salary percentile breakdown
San Diego economic context
Frequently asked questions
How much do Architectural and Engineering Managers make per hour in San Diego?
The median hourly wage for Architectural and Engineering Managers in San Diego, CA is $89.21, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $136.12 or more per hour.
Is San Diego above or below average for Architectural and Engineering Managers salaries?
The median Architectural and Engineering Managers salary in San Diego, CA is 10.6% above the national median of $167,740. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.
What is the entry-level salary for Architectural and Engineering Managers in San Diego?
Entry-level Architectural and Engineering Managers (10th percentile) earn around $134,120 per year in San Diego, CA. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $161,170.