San Diego biotech rivals Boston and SF. The defense sector adds stability. But housing costs squeeze businesses. Cash management here requires careful attention.
San Diego is America's biotech capital outside Boston, with the Torrey Pines cluster housing hundreds of life sciences companies. Defence contractors (General Atomics, Northrop Grumman) provide economic stability. UC San Diego and Scripps Research drive innovation. Lower costs than LA or SF but still expensive. Cross-border manufacturing with Tijuana creates unique supply chain dynamics.
Average office rent
$45-55/sq ft (UTC/Torrey Pines)
Biotech companies
1,200+ in region
Defence contracts
$25bn+ annually
Cost vs San Francisco
20-25% lower
Every market has unique financial challenges. Here's what San Diego businesses face and how Finley helps.
Runway modelling for clinical trial phases and milestone-based funding analysis.
DCAA-compliant cost accounting and government contract financial management.
Multi-jurisdiction cost tracking and transfer pricing for Mexico operations.
Cost structure optimisation and hybrid workforce planning to manage expenses.
San Diego's funding ecosystem is dominated by life sciences specialists. Deep biotech expertise attracts dedicated healthcare VCs. Cross-border funds leverage Tijuana manufacturing. UCSD technology transfer creates steady deal flow. Climate tech emerging around cleantech innovation.
Understanding local tax incentives and regulatory requirements is crucial for financial planning.
24% credit for qualified research expenses. Documentation-intensive but valuable for biotech.
Biotech companies face complex FDA pathways. Financial tracking supports regulatory submissions.
Mexico manufacturing requires transfer pricing documentation and customs compliance.
Deep experience with San Diego biotech companies from seed through clinical trials
Track record with defence contractors and government contract compliance
Understanding of cross-border manufacturing financial complexities
Benchmarks include San Diego-specific cost data including life sciences norms
Other fractional CFO providers in San Diego include Moss Adams, Squar Milner, CFOshare. Here is what makes Finley different:
We use AI to process your transactions and surface insights. No waiting for monthly reports - see your cash position in real-time.
Flat monthly fee based on your needs. No hourly billing surprises. No scope creep charges.
Access your financial dashboard anytime. Chat with Finley AI for instant answers. Human support when you need strategic guidance.
See where your cash will be in 30, 60, 90 days. No spreadsheet guesswork.
AI spots unusual spending patterns before they become problems.
Clear reports you can share with investors, board members, or your bank.
Know exactly how long your current cash will last at current burn rate.
Automatic categorisation shows where every $ goes.
Human experts available for fundraising, M&A, and growth planning.
Upload your bank statement and get your first cash flow analysis free. No credit card required.
Questions about our San Diego services?
Get in touch with our team