Graphic Designer Salary in Orange County, California
Orange County has many employers in technology, health care, and entertainment. Irvine and Newport Beach have high living costs. Creative professionals work in tourism, luxury retail, and digital marketing.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$46,000 to $56,000
Average (per year)
$51,000
Graduates and newcomers join design agencies, entertainment firms, or real estate marketing teams.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$57,000 to $70,000
Average (per year)
$63,500
Designers with experience work with larger creative studios or tech startups in Irvine and Santa Ana.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$71,000 to $87,000
Average (per year)
$79,000
At this stage, professionals collaborate with medical device companies or major retail brands.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$88,000+
Principal designers lead creative direction for large corporations or manage their own agencies.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$22 - $29
per hour
Mid-level
$30 - $39
per hour
Senior
$40 - $54
per hour