Salaries in Santa Clara, CA

In Santa Clara, CA, the job market offers a wide range of salaries, reflecting various levels of experience and job types. The average yearly salary stands at an impressive $120,142. This amount highlights the demand for skilled professionals in the area.

Looking closer at the salary distribution, about 28.6% of workers earn around $36,000 per year. As experience increases, so do the salaries. For example, 11.6% of jobs offer a salary of approximately $58,636. Around 7.8% of the workforce earns about $81,273, while 8.8% receive $103,909 annually.

Higher salaries are available for those with more experience. About 7.1% of jobs pay $126,545, and another 7.1% offer $149,182. Those in the upper salary brackets can earn significantly more, with 8.1% bringing in $171,818. The figures indicate a rich array of career paths with strong earning potential.

The highest salaries show even greater opportunities. About 6.6% of jobs pay $194,455, while 4.3% offer $217,091. The top 3.5% of earners receive $239,727 or more, reaching salaries as high as $262,364 and even $285,000. These amounts reveal the potential for significant income in Santa Clara.

Job seekers can feel encouraged by the competitive salary landscape in Santa Clara. With a focus on professional growth, many career opportunities exist to achieve well above average yearly earnings.

1. Principal Engineer
   Average Salary: $220,626
   This role involves leading engineering projects and managing teams in innovative tech companies. Professionals focus on developing advanced technologies, often for firms like Apple and Intel. The position requires technical expertise and strong leadership skills.
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2. Solution Architect
   Average Salary: $217,849
   This position involves designing and implementing software solutions that meet client needs. Professionals work closely with stakeholders to create effective architecture, often for companies like Cisco and VMware. They require a mix of technical knowledge and communication skills.
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3. Solutions Architect
   Average Salary: $215,318
   In this role, individuals craft solutions that align technology and business goals. They collaborate with various teams to ensure the software meets user requirements, with firms such as Google and Oracle as potential employers. Strong technical and problem-solving skills are essential.
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4. Architect
   Average Salary: $204,197
   This job focuses on developing plans and designs for large-scale projects, often in tech and engineering sectors. Professionals work with teams to ensure technical feasibility, often with organizations like Amazon and Nvidia. It requires creativity and a deep understanding of engineering principles.
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5. Machine Learning Engineer
   Average Salary: $203,777
   In this position, professionals design and implement machine learning algorithms to analyze data and improve products. They work for leading companies, developing cutting-edge technologies in AI and data science. Strong programming and analytical skills are crucial for success.
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6. Research Associate
   Average Salary: $196,848
   This role involves conducting experiments and analyzing data to support research initiatives. Professionals often work at biotech or tech companies, contributing to advancements in various fields. Attention to detail and strong analytical skills are important.
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7. DevOps Engineer
   Average Salary: $195,874
   In this position, individuals enhance software development and IT operations to improve efficiency. They often collaborate with teams at companies like Adobe and Cisco to streamline processes. Strong knowledge of automation tools and coding is key to success.
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8. Integration Engineer
   Average Salary: $195,300
   This role focuses on connecting various systems and ensuring they work seamlessly together. Professionals often work with companies in tech, providing solutions for integration issues. Technical skills in software and system architecture are essential.
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9. Technical Programs Manager
   Average Salary: $192,116
   This position requires overseeing technical projects and managing cross-functional teams to meet deadlines. Professionals work with leading tech firms, ensuring projects align with business objectives. Strong organizational and communication skills are vital.
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10. Firmware Engineer
    Average Salary: $187,964
    In this role, individuals design and develop software that directly interacts with hardware. They often collaborate with companies in sectors like consumer electronics and telecommunications. A strong understanding of both software coding and electronic principles is necessary.
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1. Restaurant Manager
   Average Salary: $79,449
   In this role, managers oversee daily operations in dining establishments. They ensure excellent customer service while managing staff and inventory. Companies in Santa Clara often look for individuals who can handle both the front and back of house efficiently.
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2. Recreation Assistant
   Average Salary: $61,737
   Recreation assistants help organize and facilitate community activities, often working for local parks or recreation centers. They plan events and provide support to ensure participants have an enjoyable experience. This position suits those who enjoy working with the public and promoting healthy activities.
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3. To Go Specialist
   Average Salary: $59,234
   A To Go Specialist manages takeout orders and ensures food is packaged accurately and efficiently. This role typically exists in restaurants with a strong focus on takeout services. Individuals in this position contribute to customer satisfaction through their attention to detail.
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4. Server Assistant
   Average Salary: $50,927
   Server assistants support waitstaff by delivering food, refilling drinks, and clearing tables. They play a crucial role in enhancing the dining experience by maintaining a clean and welcoming environment. Local restaurants appreciate workers who can thrive in fast-paced settings.
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5. Housekeeping
   Average Salary: $47,835
   Housekeepers maintain cleanliness in hotels, offices, or private residences. They perform tasks such as cleaning rooms and managing laundry. This job requires attention to detail and a commitment to providing a clean and safe environment for guests.
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6. Floor Tech
   Average Salary: $45,577
   Floor technicians specialize in cleaning and maintaining various surfaces in commercial buildings. They operate equipment to strip, wax, and polish floors, ensuring that spaces remain presentable. Businesses in Santa Clara rely on skilled workers to uphold cleanliness standards.
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7. Server
   Average Salary: $44,217
   Servers take customer orders, deliver food, and provide great service in dining establishments. They must be knowledgeable about the menu and able to handle multiple tasks simultaneously. Restaurants appreciate dependable individuals who can enhance the guest experience.
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8. Yard Worker
   Average Salary: $43,820
   Yard workers perform maintenance tasks in outdoor settings, including landscaping, planting, and garden care. They work for organizations that manage parks, golf courses, or private properties. This role offers a chance to enjoy fresh air while keeping spaces beautiful.
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9. Line Cook
   Average Salary: $43,427
   Line cooks prepare and cook food in restaurant kitchens, following recipes and presentation standards. They often work at busy establishments and must be quick and organized. Companies value cooks who can help create delicious meals for customers.
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10. Service Team Member
    Average Salary: $41,803
    Service team members engage with customers and assist in various roles within a service-oriented business. They might handle cash registers, food service, or customer inquiries. Many businesses in Santa Clara seek friendly, efficient staff to support their operations.
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1. NVIDIA
   Average Salary: $217,910
   NVIDIA is a leading technology company, widely known for its graphics processing units and AI systems.
   




2. Oski Technology
   Average Salary: $211,709
   Oski Technology specializes in innovative semiconductor solutions and offers services to enhance digital designs.
   




3. Apple
   Average Salary: $207,573
   Apple is a globally recognized brand known for its innovative consumer electronics and software.
   




4. Qualcomm
   Average Salary: $203,706
   Qualcomm leads in wireless technology and develops solutions for mobile communications.
   




5. Pure Storage
   Average Salary: $203,537
   Pure Storage focuses on data storage solutions, helping businesses manage and protect their data efficiently.
   




6. d-Matrix
   Average Salary: $202,904
   d-Matrix provides advanced AI infrastructure aimed at accelerating deep learning systems.
   




7. ServiceNow
   Average Salary: $199,737
   ServiceNow offers cloud-based solutions that streamline enterprise operations and improve IT services.
   




8. Palo Alto Networks
   Average Salary: $193,125
   Palo Alto Networks safeguards organizations with its cutting-edge cybersecurity technology.
   




9. Ampere Computing
   Average Salary: $174,670
   Ampere Computing designs processors that power cloud and data center solutions, focusing on energy-efficiency.
   




10. Intel Corporation
    Average Salary: $171,141
    Intel is a cornerstone in computing and technology, producing processors that power a wide range of devices.
    

Santa Clara, CA, has a cost of living index that stands at 192, which is 92% higher than the nationwide average of 100. Housing significantly contributes to this high index, with a housing cost of 276. This indicates that housing in Santa Clara is 176% more expensive than the average across the country. For job seekers moving to the area, understanding this cost is vital when budgeting for expenses.

Other essential costs also show an increase compared to the national average. Groceries in Santa Clara are 30% higher than average, with a grocery index of 130. Transportation costs are similarly elevated, at 135, which is 35% above the national norm. Even utilities and healthcare are pricier, with indexes of 104 and 105 respectively. While the higher cost of living in Santa Clara may seem daunting, many find the area's job opportunities and lifestyle worth the expense.