Program Manager Salary in San Diego, CA

Updated on Mar 08, 2025
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City
Salary

How much does a Program Manager make in San Diego, CA?

The average salary for a Program Manager is $117,715 per year in San Diego, CA.

In San Diego, CA, a Program Manager earns an average yearly salary of around $117,715. This salary can vary based on experience and the specific company. Some entry-level positions start at about $49,780, while more experienced managers can earn up to $225,800.


Salaries typically increase with experience. For example, after gaining a few years of experience, a Program Manager might earn around $65,782 to $81,784. As they continue to grow, they may see salaries around $97,785 to $113,787.


The opportunities for growth in this field are promising. With dedication and experience, Program Managers can advance to higher salary brackets. This makes pursuing a career in program management a wise choice for job seekers looking to establish a rewarding and well-paying career in San Diego.

View Program Manager Jobs in San Diego, CA

What are the highest paying cities for Program Manager near San Diego, CA?

For Program Manager jobs near San Diego, Poway, CA stands out with the highest average salary of $158,788. Following Poway, National City and La Jolla offer competitive salaries of $99,784 and $98,629, respectively. These cities provide excellent opportunities for skilled professionals looking to advance their careers in management roles.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Program Manager jobs near San Diego, CA, highlighting Poway, CA with the highest at $158,788 and El Cajon, CA with the lowest at $59,015.
  1. Poway, CA
    Average Salary: $158,788
    Working as a program manager in Poway offers opportunities with local companies focused on technology and manufacturing. You can help lead projects that drive innovation in a collaborative environment.
    Find Program Manager jobs in Poway, CA


  2. National City, CA
    Average Salary: $99,784
    In National City, program managers can engage with diverse industries, including healthcare and logistics. The role offers a chance to improve processes and work with teams to achieve goals.
    Find Program Manager jobs in National City, CA


  3. La Jolla, CA
    Average Salary: $98,629
    La Jolla is home to top research institutions and biotech companies, making it an exciting place for program managers. You will manage complex projects that contribute to advancements in science and health.
    Find Program Manager jobs in La Jolla, CA


  4. Chula Vista, CA
    Average Salary: $93,599
    Chula Vista is a bustling city with opportunities in education, government, and technology sectors. As a program manager, you will work to enhance community projects and support local initiatives.
    Find Program Manager jobs in Chula Vista, CA


  5. La Mesa, CA
    Average Salary: $80,597
    In La Mesa, program managers can find roles in community development and public services. You will play a key role in ensuring that projects meet community needs and are completed on time.
    Find Program Manager jobs in La Mesa, CA


  6. Ramona, CA
    Average Salary: $68,737
    Ramona offers program management roles that focus on agriculture and renewable energy projects. Managers in this area drive forward-thinking solutions while working closely with local stakeholders.
    Find Program Manager jobs in Ramona, CA


  7. El Cajon, CA
    Average Salary: $59,015
    El Cajon hosts various industries, including retail and healthcare, where program managers can thrive. You will lead projects that meet customer demands and support business growth.
    Find Program Manager jobs in El Cajon, CA

What are the best paying companies for Program Manager in San Diego, CA?

In San Diego, top companies offering Program Manager positions provide impressive salaries. Northrop Grumman leads the way with an average salary of $207,279, followed closely by Apple at $194,433 and Qualcomm at $192,534. These companies not only offer competitive pay but also present great opportunities for career growth in a thriving industry.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Program Manager jobs in San Diego, CA, highlighting Northrop Grumman with the highest at $207,279 and SAIC with the lowest at $169,001.
  1. Northrop Grumman
    Average Salary: $207,279
    Northrop Grumman offers Program Manager positions that focus on high-tech solutions and innovative projects. The company operates in various sectors including aerospace and defense, with a significant presence in San Diego.


  2. Apple
    Average Salary: $194,433
    At Apple, Program Managers collaborate on cutting-edge products and services. They work in a dynamic environment in San Diego, contributing to projects that enhance everyday technology.


  3. Qualcomm
    Average Salary: $192,534
    Qualcomm provides opportunities for Program Managers to drive innovations in telecommunications and wireless technology. Their San Diego location is at the heart of their research and development efforts.


  4. BAE Systems USA
    Average Salary: $186,568
    BAE Systems USA allows Program Managers to engage in important defense projects. The company operates in San Diego, focusing on making safety and security advancements.


  5. Intel Corporation
    Average Salary: $179,708
    Intel Corporation employs Program Managers to work on semiconductor advancements and product launches. Their San Diego location plays a vital role in their overall technology strategy.


  6. BAE Systems
    Average Salary: $175,998
    BAE Systems hires Program Managers who manage critical projects in the defense sector. The San Diego office is integral to their mission of delivering advanced technology.


  7. RailPros
    Average Salary: $174,000
    RailPros offers Program Manager roles focusing on rail construction and safety projects. Their San Diego team actively supports regional transportation infrastructure.


  8. Leidos
    Average Salary: $173,043
    Leidos seeks Program Managers for their diverse projects in defense, aviation, and healthcare. San Diego serves as a key location for their innovative solutions.


  9. Vaco
    Average Salary: $172,502
    Vaco provides Program Manager positions with a focus on consulting and staffing solutions. Their San Diego operations strive to connect talent with great opportunities.


  10. SAIC
    Average Salary: $169,001
    SAIC hires Program Managers to facilitate complex IT and engineering projects. Their San Diego office is central to their mission of delivering high-tech solutions to clients.

There are 4,414 Program Manager job openings nationwide!

How's the job market for a Program Manager in the US?

Learn what a Program Manager does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Program Manager today.
Position
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Program Manager
4,414 Job Openings
Understanding the Program Manager Role & How to Become One | ReadySetHire