Product Design Manager Salary in Santa Cruz, California

Santa Cruz is near Silicon Valley. Housing costs and university employment are notable aspects of the local economy. Local employers include tech startups, UC Santa Cruz, and digital agencies.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

$98,000 to $123,000

Average (per year)

$110,000

Early-career managers work in startups or the education sector.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

$120,000 to $146,000

Average (per year)

$133,000

Mid-level professionals work for local tech firms or satellite offices.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

$142,000 to $168,000

Average (per year)

$154,000

Senior managers consider Bay Area salary benchmarks when supporting remote workforces.

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

$165,000+

Principal and lead roles are found in larger local companies or as remote leadership.

Hourly Rates

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

Junior

$48 - $61

per hour

Mid-level

$60 - $74

per hour

Senior

$73 - $90

per hour