Head of Design Salary in Sacramento, California
Sacramento, as California's capital, employs design leaders in public and private sectors. Salaries reflect the presence of government agencies and healthcare systems.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$104,000 to $130,000
Average (per year)
$116,000
Entry-level Heads of Design join government agencies or startups in the capital city.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$131,000 to $149,000
Average (per year)
$140,000
Mid-level professionals manage design initiatives in healthcare systems, state contractors, or regional tech firms.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$150,000 to $170,000
Average (per year)
$160,000
Senior Heads of Design lead larger teams for public sector organizations and technology companies.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$171,000+
Principal-level leaders define creative direction for enterprise-scale projects and oversee design across multiple government agencies.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$57 - $78
per hour
Mid-level
$79 - $97
per hour
Senior
$98 - $128
per hour