Direct Support Professional Salary in San Diego, CA

Updated on Mar 08, 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 $41,124 per year in San Diego, CA.

In San Diego, CA, Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) earn an average yearly salary of about $41,124. This salary can vary widely based on experience and specific job responsibilities. Entry-level positions typically pay around $32,600. As a DSP gains more experience and takes on additional responsibilities, salaries can rise significantly.


For example, professionals with a few years of experience may make approximately $35,509, while those with six or more years can earn up to $64,600 annually. This progression shows that dedication and continued professional development can lead to impressive financial growth in this vital field. Overall, working as a Direct Support Professional in San Diego offers a rewarding career both emotionally and financially.

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 average salary for Direct Support Professionals at $82,653, making it an attractive location for job seekers. Other nearby cities like Ramona and Poway follow, with salaries of $49,707 and $43,020 respectively. If you’re seeking rewarding opportunities in this field, consider these cities to maximize your earning potential.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Direct Support Professional jobs near San Diego, CA, highlighting La Jolla, CA with the highest at $82,653 and Alpine, CA with the lowest at $36,544.
  1. La Jolla, CA
    Average Salary: $82,653
    Working in La Jolla offers a chance to support individuals with diverse needs in a vibrant coastal community. The local environment promotes well-being, making it a rewarding place to help others.
    Find Direct Support Professional jobs in La Jolla, CA


  2. Ramona, CA
    Average Salary: $49,707
    Ramona’s close-knit community provides a supportive atmosphere for those helping individuals with disabilities. Jobs here allow you to make a meaningful impact while working alongside caring local organizations.
    Find Direct Support Professional jobs in Ramona, CA


  3. Poway, CA
    Average Salary: $43,020
    In Poway, you can engage with a friendly community while supporting individuals in need. This area is known for its welcoming spirit and offers several opportunities with local care providers.
    Find Direct Support Professional jobs in Poway, CA


  4. Chula Vista, CA
    Average Salary: $38,274
    Chula Vista is a bustling city where you can find plenty of opportunities to assist individuals with disabilities. Working with local nonprofits and healthcare agencies provides a fulfilling career path.
    Find Direct Support Professional jobs in Chula Vista, CA


  5. Bonita, CA
    Average Salary: $38,000
    Bonita offers a peaceful setting to work as a caregiver. The community values helping others, making it an enriching place to provide support for those who need it most.
    Find Direct Support Professional jobs in Bonita, CA


  6. La Mesa, CA
    Average Salary: $37,616
    As part of La Mesa’s compassionate community, you’ll find numerous resources and support systems. The local organizations are dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with disabilities.
    Find Direct Support Professional jobs in La Mesa, CA


  7. El Cajon, CA
    Average Salary: $36,948
    El Cajon boasts a diverse population where you can play a vital role in enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities. The city has a range of agencies committed to helping those in need.
    Find Direct Support Professional jobs in El Cajon, CA


  8. Spring Valley, CA
    Average Salary: $36,836
    Spring Valley is an ideal location for those interested in a rewarding career helping others. The local organizations focus on personal development and well-being for individuals requiring support.
    Find Direct Support Professional jobs in Spring Valley, CA


  9. Del Mar, CA
    Average Salary: $36,650
    Del Mar, known for its beautiful beaches, also offers a supportive community for working with individuals in need. Local initiatives help foster connections and promote independence.
    Find Direct Support Professional jobs in Del Mar, CA


  10. Alpine, CA
    Average Salary: $36,544
    In Alpine, the serene environment supports a fulfilling career in caregiving. The community values the contributions of caregivers, creating a positive atmosphere for both workers and the individuals they serve.
    Find Direct Support Professional jobs in Alpine, CA

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

In San Diego, the best paying companies for Direct Support Professional jobs include Scripps Health and Sharp HealthCare, with average salaries of $147,094 and $136,790, respectively. Other notable employers like Merakey and Family Health Centers of San Diego offer competitive average salaries of $47,000 and $43,601. These opportunities highlight a range of pay in the field, encouraging job seekers to explore various organizations for the best compensation.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Direct Support Professional jobs in San Diego, CA, highlighting Scripps Health with the highest at $147,094 and TOWARD MAXIMUM INDEPENDENCE with the lowest at $37,628.
  1. Scripps Health
    Average Salary: $147,094
    Scripps Health offers rewarding Direct Support Professional roles in various locations across San Diego. The team provides compassionate care and assistance to individuals with disabilities, helping them lead fulfilling lives.


  2. Sharp HealthCare
    Average Salary: $136,790
    At Sharp HealthCare, Direct Support Professionals work in a supportive environment focused on delivering high-quality care. They serve individuals in various settings throughout San Diego, promoting independence and dignity.


  3. Merakey
    Average Salary: $47,000
    Merakey hires Direct Support Professionals to provide vital support to individuals with developmental disabilities. Job opportunities exist in multiple sites across San Diego, contributing to a meaningful impact in the community.


  4. Family Health Centers of San Diego
    Average Salary: $43,601
    Family Health Centers of San Diego employs Direct Support Professionals to assist patients in need. They aim to deliver holistic care and operate throughout various neighborhoods in San Diego.


  5. Cintas
    Average Salary: $41,342
    Cintas stands out by offering Direct Support Professional roles that focus on workplace inclusivity and support. Employees work in different locations across San Diego, helping people achieve workplace independence.


  6. Coast Care Partners
    Average Salary: $40,500
    Coast Care Partners provides Direct Support Professionals with the opportunity to engage directly with clients in need of care. Their operations span across several areas in San Diego, fostering personal growth.


  7. Life Works
    Average Salary: $40,333
    Life Works seeks Direct Support Professionals who are passionate about aiding others. The company offers jobs in various San Diego locations, focusing on empowering individuals with disabilities.


  8. ComForCare
    Average Salary: $40,000
    ComForCare believes in providing quality care through Direct Support Professionals. Their team operates in different parts of San Diego, ensuring that clients receive compassionate and comprehensive support.


  9. Options For All
    Average Salary: $38,050
    Options For All employs Direct Support Professionals to create opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Their commitment to community service spans multiple locations in San Diego.


  10. TOWARD MAXIMUM INDEPENDENCE
    Average Salary: $37,628
    TOWARD MAXIMUM INDEPENDENCE focuses on hiring Direct Support Professionals dedicated to fostering independence in individuals. They operate in various areas throughout San Diego, making a positive difference in people's lives.

There are 10,553 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
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Direct Support Professional
10,553 Job Openings
Understanding the Direct Support Professional Role & How to Become One | ReadySetHire