Buyers and Purchasing Agents Salary in San Diego, CA
BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad, CA
Compare Buyers and Purchasing Agents 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, Buyers and Purchasing Agents earn a median annual salary of $81,630, which is higher than the national median for this occupation at $75,650. This reflects their competitive position in a robust local economy where the area's median household income stands at $102,285. Although their earnings are lower than the typical San Diego household income, they still represent a substantial portion of it, indicating that these professionals contribute significantly to local economic activity. The local unemployment rate of 4.30% suggests a relatively healthy job market for this occupation within the region.
Entry-level Buyers and Purchasing Agents in San Diego earn around $53,130 annually at the 10th percentile, while those with more experience can see their salaries rise substantially, reaching up to $134,990 at the 90th percentile. This notable difference is primarily driven by factors such as years of experience, education level, industry demand, and individual skill set. Experienced professionals often possess advanced negotiation skills, a deep understanding of market trends, and established relationships with suppliers, all of which contribute to their higher earning potential. Additionally, those who work in industries with high purchasing volumes or complex supply chains tend to command salaries at the upper end of the spectrum.
Salary percentile breakdown
San Diego economic context
Frequently asked questions
How much do Buyers and Purchasing Agents make per hour in San Diego?
The median hourly wage for Buyers and Purchasing Agents in San Diego, CA is $39.24, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $64.50 or more per hour.
Is San Diego above or below average for Buyers and Purchasing Agents salaries?
The median Buyers and Purchasing Agents salary in San Diego, CA is 7.9% above the national median of $75,650. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.
What is the entry-level salary for Buyers and Purchasing Agents in San Diego?
Entry-level Buyers and Purchasing Agents (10th percentile) earn around $53,130 per year in San Diego, CA. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $65,420.