Clinical Research Coordinator Jobs in San Diego, CA

San Diego, California$91,250 USD/yearFull-timeTech Hub
Updated: April 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About Clinical Research Coordinator Jobs in San Diego

Looking for a Clinical Research Coordinator job in San Diego? You're in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a Clinical Research Coordinator in San Diego, CA.

We'll show you what you can expect to earn. We'll also share which companies are hiring. Plus, you'll learn about the cost of living and how to get started in your job search.

San Diego has a strong job market for Clinical Research Coordinators. Many employers are actively looking for talent. Read on to learn how to land your next role.

Clinical Research Coordinator Salary in San Diego

Entry Level
$62,050
Median
$91,250
Senior Level
$125,925

Clinical Research Coordinator salaries in San Diego are 46% above the national average, reflecting the high cost of living.

Purchasing power in San Diego is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

Clinical TrialsProtocol ManagementData CollectionRegulatory CompliancePatient Recruitment

Clinical Research Coordinator Job Market in San Diego

San Diego, CA is a major regional employment hub for Clinical Research Coordinator professionals. With a population of 1.4 million, the San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad metro area offers diverse opportunities across multiple industries. The city's strong Biotechnology and Defense sectors create robust demand for Clinical Research Coordinator talent. The market for Clinical Research Coordinator positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Clinical Research Coordinators in San Diego

Scripps HealthSharp HealthCareUC San Diego HealthKaiser Permanente

Major employers hiring Clinical Research Coordinators in San Diego include Scripps Health, Sharp HealthCare, UC San Diego Health, Kaiser Permanente. With major hospital systems and research institutions, San Diego offers excellent opportunities for healthcare professionals at all career stages. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Clinical Research Coordinators in San Diego

Living in San Diego as a Clinical Research Coordinator means navigating a cost of living that's significantly above the national average (146% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $2,400/month (33% above the national average of $1,800). Housing costs are manageable for Clinical Research Coordinator salaries in the area. Suburban apartments average $1,900/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

146
Cost Index (100=avg)
$2.4K
Avg Rent/Month
Yes
Tech Hub
Tier 2
Market Size

Commuting as a Clinical Research Coordinator in San Diego

San Diego Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute time is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services. Consider living close to your workplace. Since transit options are limited, consider living close to your workplace or negotiating flexible hours to avoid peak traffic.

Best neighborhoods for Clinical Research Coordinators in San Diego: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Clinical Research Coordinator professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in California

California has relatively high state income taxes. A Clinical Research Coordinator earning $91,250 might pay approximately $7,300 in state income tax. However, California's strong job market and quality of life often offset the higher tax burden.

Career Outlook for Clinical Research Coordinators

The job outlook for Clinical Research Coordinators in San Diego is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. San Diego's growing economy creates new positions regularly, often with less competition than coastal tech hubs. In-demand skills include Clinical Trials, Protocol Management, Data Collection, Regulatory Compliance.

Relocating to San Diego

California has higher state income taxes. Factor this into salary negotiations, as gross salary comparisons can be misleading.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Clinical Research Coordinator salary in San Diego, CA?

The average Clinical Research Coordinator salary in San Diego, CA is $91,250 per year. Entry-level Clinical Research Coordinators typically start around $62,050, while experienced professionals can earn $125,925 or more. The national average for Clinical Research Coordinator roles is $62,500.

How many Clinical Research Coordinator jobs are available in San Diego?

San Diego has a strong job market with regular openings for Clinical Research Coordinator professionals. Major employers hiring Clinical Research Coordinators include Scripps Health, Sharp HealthCare, UC San Diego Health, Kaiser Permanente. The Biotechnology and Defense sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is San Diego a good city for Clinical Research Coordinators?

San Diego is an excellent choice for Clinical Research Coordinators. As a major metro area, it offers abundant opportunities and competitive salaries. However, be aware of the higher cost of living when evaluating offers. The city's biotechnology industry creates strong demand for healthcare professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Clinical Research Coordinators in San Diego?

Top skills for Clinical Research Coordinators in San Diego include Clinical Trials, Protocol Management, Data Collection, Regulatory Compliance, Patient Recruitment. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for Clinical Research Coordinators in San Diego?

San Diego's cost of living is significantly above the national average (146% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $2,400/month. Purchasing power in San Diego is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Clinical Research Coordinators in San Diego?

San Diego Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services.

More Healthcare Jobs in San Diego