Creative Director Salary in Tustin, California
Tustin is located in Orange County, near Irvine and Santa Ana. Creative directors work with e-commerce brands, digital agencies, and regional retail chains. Salaries are influenced by the local employment market.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$68,000 to $90,000
Average (per year)
$79,000
Startups in Tustin hire entry-level creative directors.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$90,000 to $115,000
Average (per year)
$103,000
Digital agencies and local media companies employ mid-level professionals.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$115,000 to $145,000
Average (per year)
$130,000
Large marketing firms and established brands in Tustin employ senior creative directors.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$145,000+
Executive roles with 10+ years of experience exist in design‑driven tech or retail companies.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$35 - $55
per hour
Mid-level
$55 - $75
per hour
Senior
$75 - $105
per hour