Program Manager Salary in San Diego, CA

Updated on Feb 09, 2025
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How much does a Program Manager make in San Diego, CA?

The average salary for a Program Manager is $116,745 per year in San Diego, CA.

Program Managers in San Diego, CA, earn competitive salaries, reflecting the growing demand for this role in the tech and business sectors. The average yearly salary for a Program Manager is around $116,745.


Salary ranges vary significantly based on experience and skills. Entry-level positions may start around $48,000. With a few years of experience, salaries can reach about $64,164. As professionals gain more expertise, they can earn upwards of $80,327 and even exceed $100,000.


The upper end of the salary scale shows compelling earning potential, with some Program Managers making around $225,800. This variation in salaries depends on the specific industry, the size of the company, and the complexity of the projects managed. Overall, pursuing a career as a Program Manager in San Diego can lead not only to a rewarding job but also to robust financial benefits.

View Program Manager Jobs in San Diego, CA

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

Program Managers can find some of the highest salaries near San Diego in Poway, CA, where the average salary reaches an impressive $158,789. National City and La Jolla also offer attractive pay, with averages of $102,882 and $99,425, respectively. If you are looking to maximize your earnings in this field, consider these cities as strong options.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Program Manager jobs near San Diego, CA, highlighting Poway, CA with the highest at $158,789 and El Cajon, CA with the lowest at $57,698.
  1. Poway, CA
    Average Salary: $158,789
    Working in Poway offers great opportunities for managing a variety of projects. The city's growth supports roles in tech and manufacturing, with companies like Northrop Grumman making an impact.
    Find Program Manager jobs in Poway, CA


  2. National City, CA
    Average Salary: $102,882
    National City has a vibrant business scene, especially in retail and logistics. Professionals can expect to lead dynamic teams, collaborating with businesses like the National City Chamber of Commerce.
    Find Program Manager jobs in National City, CA


  3. La Jolla, CA
    Average Salary: $99,425
    La Jolla stands out with its blend of innovation and research, especially in biotech. Professionals in this role can enjoy collaboration with famous institutions like UC San Diego, enhancing their project management skills.
    Find Program Manager jobs in La Jolla, CA


  4. Chula Vista, CA
    Average Salary: $92,527
    Chula Vista is known for its diverse economy, particularly in manufacturing and retail. Program management roles here involve driving efficiency and innovation in collaboration with local businesses.
    Find Program Manager jobs in Chula Vista, CA


  5. Santee, CA
    Average Salary: $81,167
    Santee provides a supportive environment for project leaders with its growing small business sector. Local companies often look for coordinators to help streamline operations and enhance growth.
    Find Program Manager jobs in Santee, CA


  6. La Mesa, CA
    Average Salary: $69,718
    La Mesa offers a unique mix of community-focused projects, especially in urban development. Professionals can work alongside city planners and local businesses to create impactful initiatives.
    Find Program Manager jobs in La Mesa, CA


  7. Ramona, CA
    Average Salary: $68,737
    In Ramona, you’ll enjoy a smaller town feel while managing projects in agriculture and local services. The community appreciates professionals who bring innovation to enhance local businesses.
    Find Program Manager jobs in Ramona, CA


  8. El Cajon, CA
    Average Salary: $57,698
    El Cajon has a growing business landscape, attracting opportunities in retail and hospitality. Professionals in project management will find a chance to make a real difference in the local economy.
    Find Program Manager jobs in El Cajon, CA

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

In San Diego, some of the best-paying companies for Program Manager positions include Northrop Grumman, with an average salary of $206,767, and Apple, offering $194,433. Qualcomm also ranks highly, providing an average salary of $192,180. Other notable employers like BAE Systems USA and Intel Corporation follow closely, ensuring excellent earning potential for skilled professionals in this field.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Program Manager jobs in San Diego, CA, highlighting Northrop Grumman with the highest at $206,767 and BD with the lowest at $170,290.
  1. Northrop Grumman
    Average Salary: $206,767
    Northrop Grumman offers exciting Program Manager roles in aerospace and defense. The company operates in various locations in San Diego, focusing on advanced technology and systems.


  2. Apple
    Average Salary: $194,433
    Apple provides opportunities for Program Managers to work on innovative projects. In San Diego, the company focuses on software development and cutting-edge technology.


  3. Qualcomm
    Average Salary: $192,180
    Qualcomm is known for its strong tech presence and values skilled Program Managers. Jobs in San Diego include managing projects related to semiconductors and telecommunications.


  4. BAE Systems USA
    Average Salary: $186,568
    BAE Systems USA seeks Program Managers to guide defense and security projects. Their San Diego operations focus on projects that enhance national security.


  5. Intel Corporation
    Average Salary: $179,708
    Intel Corporation features Program Manager positions focusing on semiconductor innovation. Their San Diego site plays a vital role in the company's technology advancements.


  6. Leidos
    Average Salary: $176,922
    Leidos offers Program Managers roles in defense, aviation, and healthcare. The company has a significant presence in San Diego, driving various technology solutions.


  7. BAE Systems
    Average Salary: $175,998
    BAE Systems focuses on providing top-notch security solutions. Program Managers in San Diego work on projects that strengthen defense capabilities.


  8. RailPros
    Average Salary: $174,000
    RailPros provides openings for Program Managers in rail and infrastructure projects. Their San Diego office is dedicated to expanding rail services in the region.


  9. Vaco
    Average Salary: $172,502
    Vaco specializes in providing consulting and staffing solutions. Program Managers in San Diego manage projects across various industries, including technology and finance.


  10. BD
    Average Salary: $170,290
    BD seeks Program Managers to enhance healthcare solutions. Their San Diego facility focuses on medical technology and improving patient outcomes.

There are 4,039 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.
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Program Manager
4,039 Job Openings
Understanding the Program Manager Role & How to Become One | ReadySetHire