Head of Design Salary in Novato, California
Novato sits just north of San Francisco. Design leaders here experience regional wage pressures and a high cost of living.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$110,000 to $135,000
Average (per year)
$123,000
New Heads of Design in Novato receive a base salary.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$136,000 to $163,000
Average (per year)
$149,000
Mid-level design leaders work in Marin County.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$164,000 to $195,000
Average (per year)
$180,000
Senior roles may involve managing interdisciplinary teams or digital product lines.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$196,000+
Principal Heads of Design in Novato negotiate starting packages that may include equity at tech startups.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$54 - $74
per hour
Mid-level
$75 - $98
per hour
Senior
$99 - $130
per hour