Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers, Hand 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, California, laborers and freight, stock, and material movers who perform manual tasks earn a median annual salary of $39,000, with an hourly rate averaging $18.75. This figure is slightly above the national median of $38,940 for this occupation. When comparing these earnings to the local context, it's evident that the income earned by such workers represents only about 38% of the area's median household income, which stands at $102,285. This discrepancy highlights the significant economic gap between typical earners in manual labor roles and overall household incomes within the region. Despite a relatively low unemployment rate of 4.30%, these workers face challenges in achieving financial parity with their community.
For entry-level laborers and freight movers in San Diego, earnings are lower compared to those who have gained experience in the field. Workers at the 10th percentile earn approximately $35,300 annually, while those at the 25th percentile see incomes around $36,160. As workers gain more experience and advance within their roles, they can expect significant salary increases; by the 75th percentile, earnings rise to about $46,410, and for those in the top 10% (90th percentile), salaries can reach up to $53,500 annually. The disparity in earnings between entry-level and experienced workers is largely driven by factors such as job complexity, responsibility levels, skill acquisition, and on-the-job performance. Experienced workers often handle more demanding tasks, have greater efficiency, and may take on supervisory roles, all contributing to their higher wages.
Salary percentile breakdown
San Diego economic context
Frequently asked questions
How much do Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers, Hand make per hour in San Diego?
The median hourly wage for Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers, Hand in San Diego, CA is $18.75, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $27.88 or more per hour.
Is San Diego above or below average for Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers, Hand salaries?
The median Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers, Hand salary in San Diego, CA is 0.2% above the national median of $38,940. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.
What is the entry-level salary for Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers, Hand in San Diego?
Entry-level Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers, Hand (10th percentile) earn around $35,300 per year in San Diego, CA. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $36,160.