Head of Design Salary in Sonoma County, California

Sonoma County includes employers in hospitality, agriculture, and healthcare. Wineries and regional tech startups employ design leaders. The area has a high cost of living and few large tech companies.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

$110,000 to $134,000

Average (per year)

$122,000

In Sonoma County, early-career Heads of Design are employed by mid-sized firms or wineries that require digital marketing.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

$135,000 to $158,000

Average (per year)

$145,500

Mid-level professionals work at regional agencies or manufacturing companies that prioritize visual branding.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

$159,000 to $185,000

Average (per year)

$172,000

Senior Heads of Design work at larger employers such as healthcare systems and tech startups with substantial design budgets.

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

$186,000+

Principal roles are found at major regional corporations.

Hourly Rates

For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.

Junior

$52 - $65

per hour

Mid-level

$66 - $78

per hour

Senior

$79 - $92

per hour