Brand Designer Salary in Santa Monica, California
Santa Monica is part of Los Angeles County's tech and entertainment corridor. Salaries for brand designers here are influenced by tech startups, film studios, and global agencies. High housing costs and competition push pay upward.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$62,000 to $80,000
Average (per year)
$71,000
Entry salaries for early-career designers in creative studios or entertainment are often above average.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$80,000 to $98,000
Average (per year)
$89,000
Mid-level designers at tech companies, agencies, or media firms earn competitive pay that reflects market demand.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$95,000 to $120,000
Average (per year)
$107,500
Top salaries for senior professionals are most common in technology, entertainment, or direct-to-consumer brands.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$130,000+
Leads brand strategy, mentors designers, and oversees cohesive visual systems across all platforms.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$35 - $50
per hour
Mid-level
$50 - $75
per hour
Senior
$80 - $120
per hour