Design Director Salary in Santa Monica, California
Santa Monica hosts various companies. Design Director salaries are reported for Santa Monica.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$102,000 to $127,000
Average (per year)
$115,000
Entry-level Design Directors support entertainment, digital media, or growing tech startups.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$128,000 to $157,000
Average (per year)
$142,000
Major projects for creative agencies, film studios, and e-commerce platforms are led by mid-level Design Directors.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$158,000 to $190,000
Average (per year)
$174,000
Senior directors manage large teams and collaborate with clients in technology and media.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$191,000+
Principal or lead directors work for global entertainment companies or top-tier agencies, earning the highest local salary.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$65 - $90
per hour
Mid-level
$91 - $120
per hour
Senior
$121 - $165
per hour