Attorney Salary in San Diego, CA

Attorneys in San Diego, CA can expect to earn a competitive salary. The average yearly salary for an attorney in this vibrant city stands at around $139,670. This figure reflects the various experience levels and specialties within the field.

Starting attorneys might earn around $77,500, while those with several years of experience can make upwards of $190,000 or more. For instance, many earn between $125,000 and $175,000 as they advance in their careers. Meanwhile, top attorneys, particularly those with many years of experience or in high-demand specialties, can earn salaries that reach well over $250,000.

This competitive pay showcases the value and demand for legal professionals in San Diego. The city’s beautiful coastal environment and thriving economy add to the appeal of practicing law here. As a job seeker in the legal field, you can look forward to not only a rewarding career but also a promising financial future in San Diego.

1. La Jolla, CA
   Average Salary: $127,940
   Working in La Jolla offers a unique blend of beach lifestyle and legal practice. The area is home to prestigious firms and offers opportunities to work with high-profile clients and cases, especially in coastal law and real estate.
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2. Poway, CA
   Average Salary: $122,000
   Poway provides a friendly community atmosphere and a growing market for legal services. Professionals here can engage with local businesses and residents, focusing on family law and small business support.
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3. Solana Beach, CA
   Average Salary: $120,455
   Solana Beach boasts a vibrant arts scene and a close-knit community. Legal professionals can thrive in areas like environmental law and land use, often collaborating with city planners and developers.
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4. La Mesa, CA
   Average Salary: $114,622
   La Mesa combines suburban living with a strong local economy. Attorneys can find rewarding opportunities in civil rights law and consumer protection, benefiting from the city’s active community involvement.
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1. Clark Hill PLC
   Average Salary: $240,000
   Clark Hill PLC offers Attorney positions that focus on providing excellent legal services. The firm operates primarily in San Diego, where Attorneys benefit from a collaborative environment and extensive resources.
   




2. Jettison
   Average Salary: $230,000
   Jettison is known for its innovative approach to law. Attorneys at this company work in San Diego, handling diverse cases and contributing to a dynamic team atmosphere.
   




3. Illapa Search
   Average Salary: $229,375
   Illapa Search focuses on recruiting top talent in the legal field. Attorneys working with this firm in San Diego gain valuable experience and exposure to various legal challenges.
   




4. Jackson Lewis
   Average Salary: $205,800
   Jackson Lewis specializes in labor and employment law. Attorneys at the San Diego office engage in meaningful work that impacts businesses and employees throughout the region.
   




5. Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP
   Average Salary: $188,500
   Nelson Mullins offers a wide range of legal services and prides itself on teamwork. Attorneys in their San Diego locations have the opportunity to work on complex and rewarding cases.
   




6. iLocatum
   Average Salary: $185,000
   iLocatum is a tech-driven legal firm that embraces modern solutions. Attorneys in San Diego experience growth and development in a firm dedicated to innovation.
   




7. Antonyan Miranda LLP
   Average Salary: $176,950
   Antonyan Miranda LLP is focused on providing exceptional legal services. Attorneys based in San Diego work closely with clients to achieve favorable outcomes.
   




8. McNamara Smith LLP
   Average Salary: $174,763
   McNamara Smith LLP supports its Attorneys with comprehensive resources. Those in the San Diego office handle various legal matters with a client-centered approach.
   




9. Marble
   Average Salary: $172,500
   Marble is a law firm that values creativity and collaboration. Attorneys in San Diego work together to tackle unique legal challenges in a supportive environment.
   




10. Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani, LLP
    Average Salary: $172,500
    Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani operates a robust legal practice. Attorneys working in San Diego engage with a diverse client base, providing comprehensive legal counsel.
    

1. Legal Department Manager
   Average Salary: $194,350
   In this role, you will lead a team within a corporate legal setting. Companies like Qualcomm and Scripps Health in the area often seek skilled individuals to oversee legal operations. You will ensure compliance and manage legal risks effectively.
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2. General Counsel
   Average Salary: $180,043
   General Counsels directly advise executives on legal matters. Organizations such as Jack in the Box and Petco often look for experienced professionals to help guide critical business decisions. This position plays a key role in navigating the legal landscape of a company.
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3. Counsel
   Average Salary: $157,417
   Counsel positions provide expert legal advice and support to various departments. Many firms in the San Diego area, like Cooley LLP, seek individuals to handle complex legal issues. This role requires strong analytical skills and a deep understanding of the law.
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4. Insurance Attorney
   Average Salary: $154,948
   Insurance Attorneys specialize in handling cases related to insurance claims and disputes. Local firms often need attorneys to provide legal representation and advice in this fast-paced industry. You will help clients understand their rights and obligations under insurance policies.
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5. Patent Attorney
   Average Salary: $149,818
   Patent Attorneys focus on securing patents for new inventions and technologies. San Diego's tech companies frequently require skilled professionals to protect their intellectual property. You will navigate complex legal processes to support innovation.
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6. Real Estate Attorney
   Average Salary: $147,705
   Real Estate Attorneys assist with property transactions, zoning laws, and leases. With San Diego's vibrant real estate market, law firms look for experts to navigate various legal issues. You will ensure that all dealings comply with local regulations.
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7. Estate Planning Attorney
   Average Salary: $132,838
   Estate Planning Attorneys help clients draft wills and trust documents. Many residents in San Diego seek legal guidance to manage their assets effectively. Your expertise will ensure clients' wishes are carried out after their passing.
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8. Civil Rights Attorney
   Average Salary: $122,500
   Civil Rights Attorneys advocate for individuals' rights in cases of discrimination and inequality. Local non-profits and law firms often seek passionate individuals to champion justice and fairness. You will work to protect and uphold the rights of marginalized communities.
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9. Contracts Manager
   Average Salary: $120,709
   Contracts Managers oversee contract negotiations and compliance for businesses. Many San Diego companies look for professionals with strong attention to detail and negotiation skills. This role ensures that contracts serve the best interests of the organization.
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10. Legal Consultant
    Average Salary: $117,100
    Legal Consultants provide expert advice on specific legal matters without being involved in litigation. Businesses in San Diego often hire consultants to navigate complex issues efficiently. Your role involves analyzing legal risks and offering sound recommendations.
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