Modesto vs San Diego: Electrician Salary (2026)
Compare electrician salaries between Modesto, CA and San Diego, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Modesto, CA | San Diego, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $78,336▲ | $77,775 |
| Hourly Rate | $37.66▲ | $37.40 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $49,242▲ | $48,905 |
| 25th Percentile | $60,373 | $61,384▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $102,712 | $103,917▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $140,517▲ | $128,937 |
| Total Employed | 770 | 8,060▲ |
Verdict
Modesto, CA offers better overall compensation for electricians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to San Diego.
The salary gap between Modesto and San Diego is $561 (0.72%). Modesto's median is +21.39% compared to the US national median of $64,530.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Modesto spans $91,275,San Diego spans $80,032. Modesto has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Modesto ($75,245 effective) pays 8.25% more than San Diego ($69,512 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Modesto if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($78,336/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($140,517)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $75,245)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose San Diego if…
- ✓Larger job market (8,060 employed)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, electrician salaries in Modesto grew 29.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 29.6% growth in San Diego over the same period.
Modesto, CA
$59,060 (2019) → $76,710 (2025)
San Diego, CA
$58,780 (2019) → $76,160 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Modesto, CA
San Diego, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays electricians more: Modesto or San Diego?
What is the hourly rate difference between Modesto and San Diego?
Should I relocate from Modesto to San Diego as a electrician?
What do entry-level electricians earn in Modesto vs San Diego?
Related Comparisons
Written by Samuel Carter, Career Analyst
Career Analyst
Samuel Carter has over 10 years of experience as an electrician. His focus includes residential wiring and safety standards. He has worked in various construction firms.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.12% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Samuel Carter, Career Analyst, a licensed electrician with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov