Brand Designer Salary in Chico, California
Chico is home to California State University and a strong agriculture sector. Salaries here run below major metro areas, but cost of living is lower, and local firms value in-house creative talent.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$46,000 to $57,000
Average (per year)
$51,000
Many graduates start at local agencies or small businesses with salaries based on the moderate cost of living and limiteng and limited tech sector.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$57,000 to $69,000
Average (per year)
$63,000
Pay increases as designers gain a few years of experience, particularly with regional employers in retail, agriculture, ucation.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$69,000 to $82,000
Average (per year)
$75,000
Top local salaries are typically commanded by senior professionals working with larger organizations or remote teams.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$82,000+
The highest earning brackets are reached by principal designers who lead creative direction or run their own studios.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$25 - $38
per hour
Mid-level
$38 - $55
per hour
Senior
$55 - $80
per hour