Direct Support Professional Salary in San Diego, CA

Updated on Feb 09, 2025
Position
City
Salary

How much does a Direct Support Professional make in San Diego, CA?

The average salary for a Direct Support Professional is $41,223 per year in San Diego, CA.

In San Diego, CA, a Direct Support Professional can expect to earn an average yearly salary of $41,223. This figure reflects the hard work and dedication these professionals put into supporting individuals with disabilities and special needs.


Entry-level positions often pay around $32,600, which can increase with experience and additional responsibilities. Many experienced Direct Support Professionals earn salaries in the mid-range of $37,014 to $45,841, highlighting the potential for growth in this rewarding field.


For those who continue to advance in their careers, top earners can make as much as $81,150 annually. This wide range of salaries shows that a career as a Direct Support Professional not only provides a chance to make a meaningful impact on others' lives but also offers a pathway for financial advancement.

View Direct Support Professional Jobs in San Diego, CA

What are the highest paying cities for Direct Support Professional near San Diego, CA?

La Jolla, CA offers the highest salary for Direct Support Professionals, averaging $84,245, making it an attractive location for job seekers in the field. Other cities like Ramona and Poway also provide competitive wages, with average salaries of $49,365 and $42,907 respectively. Exploring these areas can lead to rewarding career opportunities in supportive roles.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Direct Support Professional jobs near San Diego, CA, highlighting La Jolla, CA with the highest at $84,245 and Lemon Grove, CA with the lowest at $36,139.
  1. La Jolla, CA
    Average Salary: $84,245
    Working in La Jolla offers a unique opportunity to support individuals with disabilities in a stunning coastal environment. Prominent organizations in the area focus on community services, allowing professionals to make a meaningful impact while enjoying the beautiful scenery.
    Find Direct Support Professional jobs in La Jolla, CA


  2. Ramona, CA
    Average Salary: $49,365
    In Ramona, professionals find a close-knit community that values care and support. Many local agencies work to uplift individuals with varying needs, providing a rewarding work environment filled with collaboration and compassion.
    Find Direct Support Professional jobs in Ramona, CA


  3. Poway, CA
    Average Salary: $42,907
    Poway provides a great setting for those looking to make a difference in people's lives. Companies in the area focus on enhancing the quality of life for residents, allowing professionals to engage deeply with their community.
    Find Direct Support Professional jobs in Poway, CA


  4. Chula Vista, CA
    Average Salary: $38,314
    Chula Vista boasts a diverse population and ample opportunities for those in the support field. Numerous local organizations are dedicated to improving lives, making it an exciting place to start or continue a career while meeting new people.
    Find Direct Support Professional jobs in Chula Vista, CA


  5. Bonita, CA
    Average Salary: $38,000
    Bonita is known for its welcoming atmosphere and community-focused values. Working here allows individuals to provide essential support to those in need while contributing to the area's vibrant spirit.
    Find Direct Support Professional jobs in Bonita, CA


  6. La Mesa, CA
    Average Salary: $37,642
    In La Mesa, professionals enjoy a supportive work environment that strives to empower individuals with disabilities. Local agencies are committed to fostering meaningful connections, making this an ideal location for compassionate workers.
    Find Direct Support Professional jobs in La Mesa, CA


  7. Spring Valley, CA
    Average Salary: $36,797
    Spring Valley offers a dynamic setting for support professionals to thrive. The local agencies prioritize the well-being of individuals, allowing workers to experience personal and professional growth in their roles.
    Find Direct Support Professional jobs in Spring Valley, CA


  8. El Cajon, CA
    Average Salary: $36,773
    El Cajon is a community rich in diversity and opportunity for those wanting to help others. Many organizations in the area are eager to assist individuals in living fulfilling lives, creating a sense of purpose for employees.
    Find Direct Support Professional jobs in El Cajon, CA


  9. Alpine, CA
    Average Salary: $36,438
    Alpine provides a scenic backdrop for support professionals who want to work in a tranquil setting. Local agencies focus on individualized support, enabling workers to make a significant impact in the lives of residents.
    Find Direct Support Professional jobs in Alpine, CA


  10. Lemon Grove, CA
    Average Salary: $36,139
    Lemon Grove invites professionals to engage in a community-centered approach. Organizations here prioritize building relationships with the individuals they serve, fostering a rewarding atmosphere for staff.
    Find Direct Support Professional jobs in Lemon Grove, CA

What are the best paying companies for Direct Support Professional in San Diego, CA?

In San Diego, Direct Support Professionals can find excellent opportunities at top-paying companies. Sharp HealthCare offers an impressive average salary of $136,790, followed by Scripps Health at $123,803. Other notable employers include Merakey and Family Health Centers of San Diego, providing competitive wages to support professionals in their important roles.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Direct Support Professional jobs in San Diego, CA, highlighting Sharp HealthCare with the highest at $136,790 and Options For All with the lowest at $36,836.
  1. Sharp HealthCare
    Average Salary: $136,790
    Sharp HealthCare offers rewarding Direct Support Professional roles focusing on providing compassionate care to individuals in San Diego. Employees have the opportunity to work at various locations including hospitals and outpatient facilities throughout the region.


  2. Scripps Health
    Average Salary: $123,803
    Scripps Health employs Direct Support Professionals committed to enhancing the lives of patients. The company operates several locations in San Diego, giving team members diverse environments to support individuals' needs effectively.


  3. Merakey
    Average Salary: $46,667
    Merakey focuses on providing services for individuals with developmental disabilities. Direct Support Professionals at Merakey work in various settings across San Diego, where they promote independence and improve quality of life.


  4. Family Health Centers of San Diego
    Average Salary: $43,620
    Family Health Centers of San Diego hires Direct Support Professionals who assist individuals in achieving their goals. Their services span numerous centers throughout San Diego, offering a supportive environment for clients.


  5. Cintas
    Average Salary: $41,342
    Cintas seeks Direct Support Professionals to engage with clients and foster community integration. Positions are available in San Diego, where employees play a crucial role in enhancing personal development.


  6. Coast Care Partners
    Average Salary: $40,500
    Coast Care Partners provides Direct Support Professional roles that allow employees to support individuals in home and community settings. The company operates in San Diego, offering a variety of care services.


  7. Life Works
    Average Salary: $40,359
    Life Works focuses on empowering individuals with disabilities through Direct Support Professional positions. Employees serve clients in various San Diego locations, helping them live more fulfilling lives.


  8. ComForCare
    Average Salary: $40,000
    ComForCare hires Direct Support Professionals dedicated to helping individuals achieve personal health goals. Positions are available throughout San Diego, providing care in the comfort of clients' homes.


  9. TOWARD MAXIMUM INDEPENDENCE
    Average Salary: $37,398
    TOWARD MAXIMUM INDEPENDENCE places a strong emphasis on inclusion for individuals with disabilities. Direct Support Professionals work in a variety of San Diego locations, driving personal success for clients.


  10. Options For All
    Average Salary: $36,836
    Options For All supports individuals with developmental challenges through professional guidance from Direct Support Professionals. Employees serve in several areas in San Diego, enhancing community engagement and independence.

There are 10,472 Direct Support Professional job openings nationwide!

How's the job market for a Direct Support Professional in the US?

Learn what a Direct Support Professional does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Direct Support Professional today.
Position
Overview
Direct Support Professional
10,472 Job Openings
Understanding the Direct Support Professional Role & How to Become One | ReadySetHire