Dental Hygienist salary in San Diego, CA
Median pay, San Diego metro
$123,790/year
about $59.51 an hour full-time
Middle half earns $121,380 – $126,820
Half of dental hygienists in the San Diego metro area earn more than $123,790 a year and half earn less. That's 26% higher than the national median of $98,100, and ranks #4 of the 30 big metro areas we track for this job.
Pay range
| Percentile | Yearly | Hourly* |
|---|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $108,320 | $52.08 |
| 25th | $121,380 | $58.36 |
| Median (50th) | $123,790 | $59.51 |
| 75th | $126,820 | $60.97 |
| 90th (top earners) | $130,530 | $62.75 |
*Yearly pay divided by 2,080 hours (40 hours × 52 weeks), the full-time basis BLS uses.
Is your offer fair?
For a dental hygienist job in the San Diego metro area, here's how an offer compares:
- Below market under $121,380 ($58.36/hr). Fine for a first job in the field, otherwise worth negotiating.
- Typical $121,380 to $126,820 ($58.36 to $60.97/hr). The middle half of what people in this job earn.
- Strong offer over $126,820 ($60.97/hr). Higher than three quarters of workers here.
Before you accept
- Many hygienists work part-time or across several offices, so compare hourly rates, not just yearly totals.
- Ask how long each appointment slot is. Short slots mean a faster, harder day for the same pay.
- Check whether you're paid for days the office closes or patients cancel.
Also watch for the common warning signs in the posting itself: 15 job posting red flags.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, 2025, San Diego metro. Occupation: Dental Hygienists (SOC 29-1292). Figures cover wage and salary workers and don't include bonuses, benefits or overtime.