Bus Driver Salary in San Diego, CA

Updated on Mar 08, 2025
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Salary

How much does a Bus Driver make in San Diego, CA?

The average salary for a Bus Driver is $45,894 per year in San Diego, CA.

In San Diego, a bus driver earns an average yearly salary of $45,894. This salary can vary based on experience and specific job responsibilities. The range of salaries for bus drivers in the area starts at around $30,300 and can reach up to $63,720. Most bus drivers fall within this range, with many earning between $39,415 and $51,567. These numbers reflect the demand for reliable transportation options in such a vibrant city, highlighting the importance of bus drivers in the community.

View Bus Driver Jobs in San Diego, CA

What are the highest paying cities for Bus Driver near San Diego, CA?

Bus drivers looking for high paying opportunities near San Diego, CA, can find the best salaries in National City, where the average pay reaches $57,923. El Cajon also offers competitive wages at around $46,312, followed by La Mesa and Chula Vista with averages of $42,773 and $41,426, respectively. These cities provide strong earning potential for those in the bus driving profession.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Bus Driver jobs near San Diego, CA, highlighting National City, CA with the highest at $57,923 and Chula Vista, CA with the lowest at $41,426.
  1. National City, CA
    Average Salary: $57,923
    National City offers a vibrant community where driving the bus provides an essential service. Local companies like the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System value skilled drivers to help connect residents to jobs and schools.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in National City, CA


  2. El Cajon, CA
    Average Salary: $46,312
    In El Cajon, bus drivers play a crucial role in keeping the city moving. Working for agencies such as the East County Transit, drivers enjoy a supportive environment while helping passengers get to their destinations safely.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in El Cajon, CA


  3. La Mesa, CA
    Average Salary: $42,773
    La Mesa boasts a friendly atmosphere where bus operators contribute to community connectivity. Employed by the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System, drivers appreciate the opportunity to serve locals and visitors alike.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in La Mesa, CA


  4. Chula Vista, CA
    Average Salary: $41,426
    Chula Vista offers diverse neighborhoods where public transportation is key. Local transit services rely on dedicated drivers to maintain efficient routes, making it a rewarding career that supports daily commuters.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in Chula Vista, CA

What are the best paying companies for Bus Driver in San Diego, CA?

In San Diego, the top-paying companies for bus drivers include the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, offering an average salary of $60,333, and the San Diego Unified School District, with an average of $60,017. Other notable employers are St Paul's Senior Services and Point Loma Nazarene University, both providing competitive pay. Joining these organizations can lead to a rewarding career with good earnings potential.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Bus Driver jobs in San Diego, CA, highlighting Boys & Girls Clubs of America with the highest at $60,333 and First Transit with the lowest at $38,060.
  1. Boys & Girls Clubs of America
    Average Salary: $60,333
    Boys & Girls Clubs of America hires bus drivers to transport children safely to various programs and events. The organization operates throughout San Diego County, providing valuable transportation services to youth programs.


  2. San Diego Unified School District
    Average Salary: $60,017
    San Diego Unified School District employs bus drivers to ensure students arrive at school and return home safely. Drivers work across the district, serving numerous schools in the San Diego area.


  3. St Paul's Senior Services
    Average Salary: $45,240
    St Paul's Senior Services seeks bus drivers to transport seniors to medical appointments and social outings. They operate in various locations around San Diego, providing an essential service for the elderly community.


  4. Point Loma Nazarene University
    Average Salary: $42,275
    Point Loma Nazarene University employs bus drivers to transport students and staff around campus and to off-site events. This role is important for maintaining accessibility on and off the university grounds.


  5. Transdev
    Average Salary: $40,853
    Transdev provides public transportation services and employs bus drivers for various routes in San Diego. The company operates buses that connect communities and ensure reliable transit options.


  6. San Diego Metropolitan Transit System
    Average Salary: $38,812
    San Diego Metropolitan Transit System hires bus drivers to operate city buses throughout San Diego. These drivers play a key role in the public transport system, helping residents travel efficiently around the city.


  7. First Transit
    Average Salary: $38,060
    First Transit offers transportation services and employs bus drivers for various routes in San Diego. Their drivers provide essential transit services, ensuring passengers reach their destinations safely.

There are 1,963 Bus Driver job openings nationwide!

How's the job market for a Bus Driver in the US?

Learn what a Bus Driver does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Bus Driver today.
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Bus Driver
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