Brand Designer Salary in San Mateo County, California

San Mateo County covers key parts of the Bay Area. Brand designers here see salaries that reflect the area's strong economy and high cost of housing.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

$72,000 to $90,000

Average (per year)

$81,000

Assist senior designers in creating visual brand assets, mockups, and style guidelines.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

$90,000 to $110,000

Average (per year)

$100,000

Established firms in biotech, finance, and cloud services typically hire mid-level designers.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

$110,000 to $135,000

Average (per year)

$122,000

Managing large creative teams and overseeing campaigns for regional and global brands falls to senior staff.

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

$135,000+

Long-term creative strategy and cross-functional brand team direction are handled by principal and lead designers..

Hourly Rates

For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.

Junior

$38 - $60

per hour

Mid-level

$60 - $90

per hour

Senior

$90 - $130

per hour