Average Civil Engineer Salary Overview in San Diego
The average Civil Engineer salary in San Diego in 2026 is $118,000 per year ($9,833/month, $56.73/hour). California charges up to 13.3% state income tax.
| Level | Annual Salary | Monthly |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | $82,000 | $6,833 |
| Mid-Level | $112,000 | $9,333 |
| Senior | $138,000 | $11,500 |
| Lead / Staff | $162,000 | $13,500 |
| Director | $190,000 | $15,833 |
Salary by Experience — Civil Engineers in San Diego
| Experience | Annual |
|---|---|
| 0–1 yr (Junior) | $73,160 |
| 1–3 yrs | $94,400 |
| 3–5 yrs (Mid) | $118,000 |
| 5–8 yrs | $136,880 |
| 8–12 yrs (Senior) | $151,040 |
| 12+ yrs | $174,640 |
Is $118,000 a Good Salary in San Diego?
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Gross Monthly | $9,833 |
| Taxes (~35%) | -$3,441 |
| Take-Home Pay | $6,391 |
| Average 1BR Rent | -$2,800 |
| Remaining | $3,591 |
After rent, a Civil Engineer in San Diego earning $118,000 has approximately $3,591/month for other expenses. What Is a Good Salary in 2026?
How to Negotiate Your Civil Engineer Salary in San Diego
- Research the market. The San Diego average for Civil Engineers is $118,000. Use Glassdoor and LinkedIn Salary to validate your range.
- Negotiate total comp. Bonuses, equity, PTO, and remote flexibility add significant value beyond base pay.
- Negotiate post-offer. You have maximum leverage after the company decides it wants you — use it.
FAQ
What is the average Civil Engineer salary in San Diego?
$118,000/year as of 2026. Entry-level starts around $82,000, seniors earn $138,000+.
How much does a Civil Engineer make per hour in San Diego?
Approximately $56.73/hour based on a standard 40-hour work week at $118,000 annual salary.
Do Civil Engineers get bonuses in San Diego?
Yes — typically 5–20% of base salary depending on employer, industry, and performance.
Is San Diego a good job market for Civil Engineers?
Yes. San Diego has growing demand across multiple sectors, with competitive compensation relative to cost of living.
Salary Data Sources
See Bureau of Labor Statistics, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn Salary.