Program Manager Salary in San Diego, CA

Updated on Jan 08, 2025
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How much does a Program Manager make in San Diego, CA?

The average salary for a Program Manager is $116,725 per year in San Diego, CA.

In San Diego, CA, a Program Manager enjoys a competitive salary that reflects their skills and responsibilities. On average, these professionals make around $116,725 per year.


Salaries can vary, so let's look at what you might expect. Entry-level positions start around $49,000, while seasoned managers can earn as much as $225,800 annually.


The salary distribution shows that about 10.5% of Program Managers earn between $49,000 and $65,073. This increases to approximately 29.3% of individuals earning between $65,073 and $81,145, indicating a healthy demand for skilled workers in this field. As professionals gain experience and take on more complex projects, salaries can rise significantly, with about 20% earning over $145,436.


Overall, the Program Manager role in San Diego offers strong earning potential and a rewarding career path, attracting many qualified candidates to this vibrant job market.

View Program Manager Jobs in San Diego, CA

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

In the San Diego area, Poway stands out as the highest paying city for Program Manager jobs, with an impressive average salary of $157,668. National City and La Jolla follow, offering average salaries of $102,882 and $99,425, respectively. This data highlights the potential for significant earnings in nearby communities, making them attractive options for job seekers in this role.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Program Manager jobs near San Diego, CA, highlighting Poway, CA with the highest at $157,668 and El Cajon, CA with the lowest at $57,698.
  1. Poway, CA
    Average Salary: $157,668
    Working as a program manager in Poway offers a chance to collaborate with innovative companies like Northrop Grumman. The city’s strong tech presence means you can play a key role in exciting projects that drive the industry forward.
    Find Program Manager jobs in Poway, CA


  2. National City, CA
    Average Salary: $102,882
    In National City, program managers can engage with diverse projects that support local businesses and community initiatives. This city’s growth creates opportunities for meaningful work that positively impacts residents.
    Find Program Manager jobs in National City, CA


  3. La Jolla, CA
    Average Salary: $99,425
    La Jolla is home to notable organizations such as the Salk Institute, making it a vibrant place for program managers. You can lead groundbreaking projects in a stunning coastal environment, combining work with a beautiful lifestyle.
    Find Program Manager jobs in La Jolla, CA


  4. Chula Vista, CA
    Average Salary: $92,527
    Chula Vista offers a dynamic environment for program managers, with a mix of manufacturing and tech industries. You can help drive growth initiatives while enjoying a community focused on innovation and collaboration.
    Find Program Manager jobs in Chula Vista, CA


  5. Santee, CA
    Average Salary: $81,167
    In Santee, program managers play a vital role in local business development and community projects. The city’s focus on improving infrastructure and supporting small businesses creates a fulfilling work atmosphere.
    Find Program Manager jobs in Santee, CA


  6. La Mesa, CA
    Average Salary: $69,718
    La Mesa provides program managers a chance to work on projects that benefit the local community and enhance public services. The city's friendly environment encourages collaboration and creativity.
    Find Program Manager jobs in La Mesa, CA


  7. Ramona, CA
    Average Salary: $68,737
    Working in Ramona as a program manager means engaging with local agriculture and tourism. You can oversee projects that promote sustainable practices while enjoying the charm of a close-knit community.
    Find Program Manager jobs in Ramona, CA


  8. El Cajon, CA
    Average Salary: $57,698
    El Cajon hosts a variety of businesses, giving program managers diverse opportunities to lead projects. This growing city values innovation and teamwork, making it an exciting place to develop your career.
    Find Program Manager jobs in El Cajon, CA

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

In San Diego, Program Managers can find some of the best salaries at top companies. Northrop Grumman leads the way with an average salary of $206,767, followed closely by Apple and Qualcomm at $194,433 and $192,180, respectively. These figures highlight the strong demand and competitive pay for skilled Program Managers in the region.
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 opportunities for Program Managers in San Diego. The company focuses on aerospace and defense technologies, making it a great place for employees interested in innovation and impactful work.


  2. Apple
    Average Salary: $194,433
    Apple provides an inspiring work environment for Program Managers, especially at its San Diego location. The company emphasizes cutting-edge technology and product development, creating a dynamic space for career growth.


  3. Qualcomm
    Average Salary: $192,180
    Qualcomm is a leader in telecommunications, offering rewarding Program Manager roles in San Diego. Employees get to work on groundbreaking projects in mobile technology, promoting a culture of collaboration and innovation.


  4. BAE Systems USA
    Average Salary: $184,256
    BAE Systems USA values Program Managers who drive complex projects in defense and security. The San Diego location supports many key initiatives, making it a fulfilling choice for those who seek meaningful work.


  5. Intel Corporation
    Average Salary: $179,708
    Intel Corporation employs Program Managers who play vital roles in developing semiconductor technology. Their San Diego operations benefit from a thriving tech community that encourages creativity and teamwork.


  6. Leidos
    Average Salary: $176,922
    Leidos focuses on solutions in defense, aviation, and information technology. Program Managers in San Diego can expect to work on innovative projects that contribute to national security and essential services.


  7. BAE Systems
    Average Salary: $175,998
    BAE Systems looks for skilled Program Managers across various domains, including maritime and land systems. Their San Diego team enjoys diverse projects aimed at enhancing global security.


  8. RailPros
    Average Salary: $174,000
    RailPros specializes in rail and transit projects. Program Managers in San Diego will engage with both large-scale and community-focused projects, fostering safety and efficiency in transportation.


  9. Vaco
    Average Salary: $172,502
    Vaco offers Program Manager positions that provide support in finance, technology, and operations. Their San Diego office promotes a vibrant workplace where managers can drive positive change.


  10. BD
    Average Salary: $170,290
    BD focuses on healthcare solutions, and Program Managers at their San Diego site lead projects that impact patient care globally. The company values professionalism and innovation in improving health 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