Design Manager Salary in Redwood City, California

Redwood City is near major tech employers such as Electronic Arts and Oracle. High local housing costs and intense competition affect compensation levels. Design managers here work alongside experienced industry professionals.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

$98,000 to $125,000

Average (per year)

$112,000

Design managers fresh out of school or transitioning from related fields begin their careers in this region.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

$126,000 to $155,000

Average (per year)

$140,000

With several years of experience, managers handle project teams or product lines for major tech firms and regional startups.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

$156,000 to $195,000

Average (per year)

$175,000

Senior design managers in Redwood City oversee cross-functional teams and report to directors in companies such as Oracle or Box.

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

$196,000+

Principal and lead managers lead design for entire product suites or divisions in large tech organizations.

Hourly Rates

For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.

Junior

$50 - $68

per hour

Mid-level

$69 - $88

per hour

Senior

$89 - $120

per hour