Head of UX Salary in Palo Alto, California
Palo Alto hosts a concentration of tech companies employing UX professionals. Housing costs and recruiting activity influence local salary levels. Equity packages are part of compensation for senior roles.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$155,000 to $187,000
Average (per year)
$170,000
Early‑career Heads of UX in Palo Alto lead small teams at startups.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$186,000 to $230,000
Average (per year)
$205,000
UX leaders with several years of experience manage multiple products and work for larger companies.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$228,000 to $275,000
Average (per year)
$250,000
Senior Heads of UX lead strategic design initiatives at large technology firms.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$270,000+
Senior UX professionals consult for or lead UX at Silicon Valley companies.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$85 - $115
per hour
Mid-level
$120 - $170
per hour
Senior
$175 - $250
per hour