Interaction Designer Salary in Irvine, California
Irvine in Orange County hosts software firms, video game studios, and biomedical companies. High demand for advanced design skills influences salaries in the area. The cost of living is elevated.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$75,000 to $87,000
Average (per year)
$81,000
Recent graduates in Irvine earn entry-level salaries that reflect local market conditions.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$90,000 to $108,000
Average (per year)
$99,000
When joining product teams at gaming, SaaS, or medical device firms, mid-level designers earn salaries aligned with their experience.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$112,000 to $136,000
Average (per year)
$124,000
Senior designers in Irvine often manage projects with significant budgets and responsibilities.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$144,000+
Principal and lead designers receive senior-level salaries, especially at multinational headquarters and technology companies.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$38 - $50
per hour
Mid-level
$52 - $70
per hour
Senior
$72 - $92
per hour