Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists Salary in San Francisco, CA
BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont, CA
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In San Francisco, CA, medical scientists, excluding epidemiologists, earn a median annual salary of $142,540, which is significantly higher than the national median of $100,590. This position places them well above the local area's median household income of $133,780, indicating that these professionals typically enjoy compensation that exceeds what many households in San Francisco earn overall. The discrepancy highlights the premium commanded by specialized medical scientists within this metropolitan region, reflecting both the demand for their expertise and the city’s high cost of living.
For entry-level medical scientists in San Francisco, salaries start at around $85,230 (10th percentile), whereas more experienced professionals can expect to earn upwards of $164,690 at the 75th percentile and even reach up to $195,640 at the 90th percentile. This wide salary range is driven by factors such as years of experience, level of education, specific skills, and institutional demands. Entry-level positions often require foundational knowledge with potential for rapid growth in earnings as expertise expands, whereas seasoned professionals benefit from additional qualifications and proven track records that command higher salaries.
Salary percentile breakdown
San Francisco economic context
Frequently asked questions
How much do Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists make per hour in San Francisco?
The median hourly wage for Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists in San Francisco, CA is $68.53, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $102.42 or more per hour.
Is San Francisco above or below average for Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists salaries?
The median Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists salary in San Francisco, CA is 41.7% above the national median of $100,590. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.
What is the entry-level salary for Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists in San Francisco?
Entry-level Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists (10th percentile) earn around $85,230 per year in San Francisco, CA. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $126,580.