Design Manager Salary in Santa Ana, California
Santa Ana is in Orange County. Salaries are lower than those in tech-focused Bay Area cities. Cost of living pressures are present.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$78,000 to $95,000
Average (per year)
$86,000
Manufacturing, government, and local creative agencies often hire entry-level workers.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$96,000 to $120,000
Average (per year)
$109,000
Regional corporations and public sector clients rely on mid-level managers to oversee design projects.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$121,000 to $143,000
Average (per year)
$132,000
Design teams in established Orange County firms are led by senior managers.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$144,000+
Large-scale initiatives for major private or municipal employers are directed by principal managers.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$37 - $50
per hour
Mid-level
$51 - $65
per hour
Senior
$66 - $78
per hour