Creative Director Salary in Hawthorne, California
Hawthorne sits near Los Angeles, shaped by aerospace and entertainment studios. High living costs and access to major employers influence Creative Director salaries in the area. Local agencies and production houses compete for experienced talent.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$67,000 to $85,000
Average (per year)
$75,500
Entry-level Creative Directors join advertising agencies or small production studios, earning wages for the South Bay region.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$90,000 to $120,000
Average (per year)
$105,000
Mid-level professionals manage creative teams serving entertainment or aerospace-related clients, a role shaped by the city's proximity to Los Angeles and firms such as SpaceX.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$123,000 to $150,000
Average (per year)
$136,500
Senior Creative Directors lead major accounts or in-house teams, working with tech startups or media firms in the area.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$155,000+
At the principal level, professionals direct creative vision at major companies or oversee multiple brands.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$38 - $50
per hour
Mid-level
$54 - $70
per hour
Senior
$75 - $95
per hour