Interaction Designer Salary in California, United States
In California's San Francisco Bay Area, mid‑level interaction designers earn a median of $86,000 per year. Wages are above many regional peers. Housing costs and design value affect the number.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$62,000 to $76,000
Average (per year)
$70,000
Starting salaries vary based on local market conditions.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$78,000 to $95,000
Average (per year)
$86,000
Mid-tier designers typically earn higher salaries than entry-level positions.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$95,000 to $113,000
Average (per year)
$104,000
Senior roles command higher pay due to experience with large-scale projects and management responsibilities.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$115,000+
Principal designers may receive higher compensation.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$31 - $41
per hour
Mid-level
$42 - $56
per hour
Senior
$57 - $73
per hour
Across the United States, mid‑level interaction designers average around $73,000 annually. The median is roughly $13,000 higher in California's Bay Area.