Computer Hardware Engineers Salary in San Diego, CA

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad, CA

Median annual salary $169,230 +9.2% vs national
Median hourly $81.36
10th percentile $120,420
90th percentile $213,780
Employed locally 3,200
National median $155,020

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Computer Hardware Engineers
in
San Diego, CA
vs

    In San Diego, CA, a typical Computer Hardware Engineer earns a median annual salary of $169,230, which is notably higher than the national median of $155,020 for the same occupation. This local earning surpasses the area's median household income by approximately 65%, highlighting the lucrative nature of this field in the region. With a relatively low unemployment rate of 4.30%, San Diego offers a favorable job market for professionals in this sector.

    Entry-level Computer Hardware Engineers in San Diego earn around $120,420 annually, placing them at the 10th percentile, while those with more experience can reach up to $213,780 annually by the 90th percentile. This significant difference is driven primarily by factors such as experience level, specialized skills, and educational background. As engineers advance in their careers, increased responsibilities and expertise typically lead to higher earnings, reflecting the value of sustained professional growth within this field.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $120,420
    25th
    $132,390
    50th (median)
    $169,230
    75th
    $211,090
    90th
    $213,780

    San Diego economic context

    Unemployment rate 4.30% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $102,285 2023 • Census ACS
    Computer Hardware Engineers salary vs area income 165% Median Computer Hardware Engineers salary is 65% above the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Computer Hardware Engineers make per hour in San Diego?

    The median hourly wage for Computer Hardware Engineers in San Diego, CA is $81.36, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $109.59 or more per hour.

    Is San Diego above or below average for Computer Hardware Engineers salaries?

    The median Computer Hardware Engineers salary in San Diego, CA is 9.2% above the national median of $155,020. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Computer Hardware Engineers in San Diego?

    Entry-level Computer Hardware Engineers (10th percentile) earn around $120,420 per year in San Diego, CA. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $132,390.