Brand Designer Salary in Santa Cruz, California
Santa Cruz sits between Silicon Valley and the Monterey Bay. Local salaries track high housing costs. Tech startups and remote roles help keep pay competitive.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$58,000 to $72,000
Average (per year)
$65,000
Graduates and junior designers start with salaries reflecting local living costs.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$70,000 to $87,000
Average (per year)
$78,500
Mid-level professionals often work in agencies or for UC Santa Cruz, earning higher pay than most Central Coast cities.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$85,000 to $102,000
Average (per year)
$92,500
Seasoned designers with a solid portfolio command strong salaries, especially from tech startups and education organizations.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$105,000+
Lead roles at local firms or remote positions from Bay Area employers offer compensation above $105,000.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$28 - $40
per hour
Mid-level
$40 - $60
per hour
Senior
$65 - $90
per hour