Social Worker Salary in San Diego, CA

Updated on Apr 11, 2025
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Salary

How much does a Social Worker make in San Diego, CA?

The average salary for a Social Worker is $71,464 per year in San Diego, CA.

If you're considering a career as a Social Worker in San Diego, CA, you'll be pleased to know that the average yearly salary is $71,464. This figure offers a solid foundation for those entering the field, but it's also important to understand the range of salaries you might encounter.


The lowest 10% of Social Workers earn around $35,930 annually. This entry-level salary is a starting point for many, providing an opportunity to gain experience and advance in the field.


As you gain experience, your salary can increase. The next step up, the 25th percentile, shows Social Workers earning about $52,448 per year. This is a good indicator of what you might expect after a few years of practice.


For those in the middle of their career, the median salary is around $68,966. This is the midpoint where half of Social Workers earn more, and half earn less.


Experienced Social Workers, who make up the 75th percentile, enjoy salaries of approximately $93,744 annually. This is a testament to the value and impact of seasoned professionals in the field.


At the top end, the highest 10% of Social Workers earn over $118,521 per year. These are often senior positions or those with specialized skills and extensive experience.


Overall, a career as a Social Worker in San Diego offers a rewarding path with competitive salaries that grow with experience and expertise.

View Social Worker Jobs in San Diego, CA

What are the highest paying cities for Social Worker near San Diego, CA?

If you're a social worker near San Diego, CA, consider looking for jobs in La Jolla, CA, where you can earn the highest average salary. Chula Vista, CA, and La Mesa, CA, also offer competitive pay for social workers. These cities provide rewarding opportunities for those in the field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Social Worker jobs near San Diego, CA, highlighting La Jolla, CA with the highest at $99,773 and Poway, CA with the lowest at $36,460.
  1. La Jolla, CA
    Average Salary: $99,773
    In La Jolla, you can find rewarding work with organizations like Rady Children's Hospital, offering support to families and children. The community's focus on wellness makes it a great place to make a difference.
    Find Social Worker jobs in La Jolla, CA


  2. Chula Vista, CA
    Average Salary: $67,588
    Chula Vista provides opportunities with local nonprofits and government agencies, helping diverse populations. The city's vibrant community spirit enhances the impact of your work.
    Find Social Worker jobs in Chula Vista, CA


  3. La Mesa, CA
    Average Salary: $67,032
    La Mesa offers a range of positions with local schools and community centers, where you can assist families and youth. The supportive environment here fosters strong professional relationships.
    Find Social Worker jobs in La Mesa, CA


  4. Alpine, CA
    Average Salary: $62,892
    In Alpine, you can work with smaller, community-focused organizations, providing personalized care to residents. The close-knit community allows for meaningful connections.
    Find Social Worker jobs in Alpine, CA


  5. El Cajon, CA
    Average Salary: $58,847
    El Cajon has many opportunities with local health services and schools, where you can help improve the lives of many. The city's dedication to community well-being is evident in its supportive work environment.
    Find Social Worker jobs in El Cajon, CA


  6. National City, CA
    Average Salary: $55,418
    National City offers roles with various organizations, including those focused on youth and family services. The city's diverse population provides a rich environment for impactful work.
    Find Social Worker jobs in National City, CA


  7. Spring Valley, CA
    Average Salary: $44,782
    In Spring Valley, you can find fulfilling work with community-based nonprofits and local government. The area's focus on family support makes it a great place to contribute positively.
    Find Social Worker jobs in Spring Valley, CA


  8. Poway, CA
    Average Salary: $36,460
    Poway provides opportunities with local schools and health services, where you can make a significant impact on the community. The city's emphasis on education and health creates a supportive work environment.
    Find Social Worker jobs in Poway, CA

What are the best paying companies for Social Worker in San Diego, CA?

If you're a social worker in San Diego, consider applying to the US Department of Veterans Affairs, which offers the highest average salary at $120,957. Scripps Health and Sharp HealthCare also provide competitive salaries, making them great options for your career. Other notable employers include Rady Children's Hospital and UC San Diego, both offering salaries above $80,000.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Social Worker jobs in San Diego, CA, highlighting US Department of Veterans Affairs with the highest at $120,957 and DaVita with the lowest at $77,096.
  1. US Department of Veterans Affairs
    Average Salary: $120,957
    The US Department of Veterans Affairs offers rewarding Social Worker jobs in San Diego, CA. They work to support veterans' mental health and well-being. Locations include the VA Medical Center in La Jolla.


  2. Scripps Health
    Average Salary: $106,754
    Scripps Health provides excellent Social Worker positions in San Diego, CA. They focus on patient care and community health. Their facilities are located in Encinitas, Chula Vista, and Hillcrest.


  3. Sharp HealthCare
    Average Salary: $99,328
    Sharp HealthCare offers competitive Social Worker salaries in San Diego, CA. They emphasize patient care and support. Their locations include Sharp Chula Vista Medical Center and Sharp Grossmont Hospital.


  4. UC San Diego
    Average Salary: $85,871
    UC San Diego provides Social Worker jobs in San Diego, CA, with a focus on research and community service. Their main campus is in La Jolla, with other facilities in Hillcrest and East Campus.


  5. Rady Children's Hospital
    Average Salary: $84,057
    Rady Children's Hospital offers Social Worker positions in San Diego, CA, dedicated to pediatric care. Their main location is in Hillcrest, with a satellite clinic in Chula Vista.


  6. Casey Family Programs
    Average Salary: $83,000
    Casey Family Programs provides Social Worker jobs in San Diego, CA, focusing on child welfare and family services. Their office is located in the downtown area.


  7. Aurora San Diego
    Average Salary: $79,115
    Aurora San Diego offers Social Worker positions in San Diego, CA, with a focus on mental health and substance abuse treatment. Their facilities are located in Kearny Mesa and Clairemont.


  8. Regal Medical Group
    Average Salary: $78,350
    Regal Medical Group provides Social Worker jobs in San Diego, CA, with a focus on patient care and community health. Their locations include multiple sites across the city.


  9. San Ysidro Health
    Average Salary: $77,965
    San Ysidro Health offers Social Worker positions in San Diego, CA, with a focus on serving underserved communities. Their main location is in San Ysidro, with additional sites in Chula Vista and National City.


  10. DaVita
    Average Salary: $77,096
    DaVita provides Social Worker jobs in San Diego, CA, focusing on patient care and support for those with kidney disease. Their facilities are located in multiple areas across the city.

There are 6,191 Social Worker job openings nationwide!

How's the job market for a Social Worker in the US?

Learn what a Social Worker does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Social Worker today.
Position
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Social Worker
6,191 Job Openings
Understanding the Social Worker Role & How to Become One | ReadySetHire