Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors Salary in San Diego, CA
BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad, CA
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In San Diego, CA, educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors earn a median annual salary of $82,830, which is significantly higher than the national median of $65,140 for this occupation. This positions them well above the area's median household income of $102,285, indicating that individuals in this profession typically earn more than the average San Diego household. Despite a local unemployment rate of 4.30%, these professionals are in stable demand, with an estimated employment figure of 3,590 in the region.
Salaries for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in San Diego vary based on experience. Entry-level positions fall at or below the 10th percentile, earning approximately $50,100 annually, while those in more experienced roles may reach up to the 90th percentile with salaries of $134,920 per year. The substantial salary increase from entry-level to experienced workers is driven by factors such as years of experience, advanced qualifications, and specialized expertise within subfields like higher education or vocational counseling. Additionally, proficiency in addressing complex student needs and demonstrating effective guidance can further enhance earning potential for these professionals.
Salary percentile breakdown
San Diego economic context
Frequently asked questions
How much do Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors make per hour in San Diego?
The median hourly wage for Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors in San Diego, CA is $39.82, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $64.52 or more per hour.
Is San Diego above or below average for Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors salaries?
The median Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors salary in San Diego, CA is 27.2% above the national median of $65,140. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.
What is the entry-level salary for Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors in San Diego?
Entry-level Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors (10th percentile) earn around $50,100 per year in San Diego, CA. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $66,500.