Interaction Designer Salary in San Mateo County, California

San Mateo County includes major employers in cloud software, fintech, and healthcare. High living costs drive salaries up, especially for experienced designers. Roles vary in scope.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

$92,000 to $113,000

Average (per year)

$104,000

Entry-level designers join product teams at tech firms, and their salaries reflect local market conditions.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

$120,000 to $140,000

Average (per year)

$130,000

Mid-level interaction designers work with cloud, fintech, and biotech companies.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

$138,000 to $165,000

Average (per year)

$151,000

Senior designers manage UX for complex platforms and mentor junior staff.

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

$165,000+

Principal and lead designers shape digital strategy at the county's largest employers.

Hourly Rates

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

Junior

$47 - $68

per hour

Mid-level

$68 - $100

per hour

Senior

$100 - $145

per hour