Industrial Engineers 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, industrial engineers have a median annual salary of $114,400, which is higher than the national median of $101,140 for this occupation. This figure translates to a median hourly wage of $55.00. When compared to the local area's median household income of $102,285, it becomes evident that an individual working as an industrial engineer typically earns more than the average household in San Diego. The relatively low unemployment rate of 4.30% in the region suggests a healthy demand for such skilled professionals, further underscoring their financial advantage over the general population.
The salary spectrum for industrial engineers in San Diego reflects significant variation based on experience and skill level. Entry-level workers are generally at or near the lower end of the pay scale, with salaries starting around $77,730 (10th percentile). In contrast, those with more experience can earn up to $138,330 at the 75th percentile, and highly skilled professionals may reach as high as $172,700 at the 90th percentile. The substantial disparity between these figures is driven by factors such as years of experience, specialized skills, education level, and the specific industry sector within which an engineer operates. Advanced expertise and proven track records in optimizing complex systems typically command higher compensation, reflecting the value placed on seasoned professionals in this field.
Salary percentile breakdown
San Diego economic context
Frequently asked questions
How much do Industrial Engineers make per hour in San Diego?
The median hourly wage for Industrial Engineers in San Diego, CA is $55.00, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $79.87 or more per hour.
Is San Diego above or below average for Industrial Engineers salaries?
The median Industrial Engineers salary in San Diego, CA is 13.1% above the national median of $101,140. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.
What is the entry-level salary for Industrial Engineers in San Diego?
Entry-level Industrial Engineers (10th percentile) earn around $77,730 per year in San Diego, CA. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $96,370.