Creative Director Salary in Pasadena, California
Pasadena includes entertainment, technology, and design sectors. The city's cost of living is relatively high. Creative Directors usually work for media companies, advertising agencies, or tech startups.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$76,000 to $102,000
Average (per year)
$89,000
Entry-level jobs are most common in media production companies, design studios, and local tech startups.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$110,000 to $140,000
Average (per year)
$125,000
Mid-level Creative Directors work at established agencies and entertainment firms.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$145,000 to $185,000
Average (per year)
$164,000
Senior professionals lead creative departments in larger companies or manage major advertising campaigns.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$190,000+
Principal-level Creative Directors work for global brands, national media companies, or major corporations.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$40 - $65
per hour
Mid-level
$70 - $110
per hour
Senior
$115 - $170
per hour