RateOrchard
METRO DATA PROFILE · 2024

Operations Research Analysts salary in San Diego, California

Metro-level median, range, and employment from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics for the San Diego metropolitan area. Skills and task data from O*NET. State and national figures shown for context.

Adrian Serafin, founder and editor of RateOrchardBy Adrian SerafinFounderUpdated April 30, 2026
Median annual$90,490
Mean annual$102,230
Range (10th to 90th)$64,530 to $160,020
San Diego, California employment1,270
State vs national-2.7% vs national

Salary distribution

Where San Diego operations research analysts fall on the wage curve.

Annual wage distribution

Shaded band = interquartile range (where most full-time workers fall)

10TH$64,53025TH$75,170MEDIAN$90,49075TH$123,21090TH$160,020

The middle 50% of workers earn between $75,170 and $123,210, with a median of $90,490.

Typical entry

  • Education

    Bachelor's degree

  • Experience

    None

  • On-the-job training

    None

Top skills (O*NET)

  • Mathematical Reasoning

    Ability

    4.8 / 5
  • Mathematics

    Knowledge

    4.7 / 5
  • Mathematics

    Basic skill

    4.5 / 5
  • Number Facility

    Ability

    4.3 / 5
  • Written Comprehension

    Ability

    4.3 / 5
  • Inductive Reasoning

    Ability

    4.3 / 5
  • Oral Expression

    Ability

    4.1 / 5
  • Deductive Reasoning

    Ability

    4.1 / 5

Common tasks (O*NET)

  1. 01

    Formulate mathematical or simulation models of problems, relating constants and variables, restrictions, alternatives, conflicting objectives, and their numerical parameters.

  2. 02

    Perform validation and testing of models to ensure adequacy, and reformulate models, as necessary.

  3. 03

    Collaborate with senior managers and decision makers to identify and solve a variety of problems and to clarify management objectives.

  4. 04

    Present the results of mathematical modeling and data analysis to management or other end users.

  5. 05

    Collaborate with others in the organization to ensure successful implementation of chosen problem solutions.

  6. 06

    Analyze information obtained from management to conceptualize and define operational problems.

  7. 07

    Study and analyze information about alternative courses of action to determine which plan will offer the best outcomes.

  8. 08

    Prepare management reports defining and evaluating problems and recommending solutions.

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Other metros in California

How the San Diego metro compares to other major California metro areas for operations research analysts.

Frequently asked questions

What is the median salary for Operations Research Analysts in San Diego, California?
According to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, the median annual wage for Operations Research Analysts in the San Diego metropolitan area is $90,490.
Does San Diego pay more than the California state average for Operations Research Analysts?
The San Diego metro median is -6.6% versus the California state median of $96,920.
How does San Diego compare to the national median for Operations Research Analysts?
The San Diego metro median is -2.7% versus the BLS national figure of $93,011.
What is the salary range for Operations Research Analysts in San Diego?
BLS reports the 10th-percentile annual wage at $64,530 and the 90th-percentile at $160,020 for the San Diego metro area.
What education is required for Operations Research Analysts?
BLS lists the typical entry-level education as Bachelor's degree. Many employers also weigh prior experience and credentials.
Disclaimer

Information on this page is for general educational purposes only. It is not career, financial, or tax advice. BLS metro estimates reflect the San Diego CBSA boundary for the reference year shown and may not match individual offers, employer-specific ranges, or current market conditions. Confirm with a licensed professional before making career or compensation decisions.