Head of Design Salary in San Clemente, California
Creative roles in San Clemente are present in real estate, hospitality, and boutique agencies. Design salaries lack the premium found in larger California markets.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$95,000 to $120,000
Average (per year)
$107,000
Early-career Heads of Design in San Clemente join smaller firms or regional agencies.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$120,000 to $145,000
Average (per year)
$132,000
Mid-level leaders guide teams for real estate, retail, or local tech startups.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$145,000 to $175,000
Average (per year)
$158,000
Senior Heads manage creative direction for established companies.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$175,000+
Principal-level roles are found in larger local companies and remote‑first organizations.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$55 - $75
per hour
Mid-level
$75 - $105
per hour
Senior
$105 - $135
per hour