Product Designer Salary in Orange County, California
Orange County has a mix of high cost-of-living coastal cities and inland business hubs. Local employers include software startups, medical device companies, and action sports brands. Designer salaries in the area depend on experience and employer.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$78,000 to $95,000
Average (per year)
$86,000
Large tech firms and consumer brands in Irvine and Costa Mesa hire new graduates.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$95,000 to $122,000
Average (per year)
$108,500
Designers with several years in SaaS, healthcare tech, or e-commerce often work near Newport Beach.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$122,000 to $145,000
Average (per year)
$134,000
Senior talent working for regional headquarters or growing startups are employed in Orange County.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$145,000+
Principal and lead designers at larger organizations or in medical device firms are employed in the area.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$38 - $55
per hour
Mid-level
$55 - $80
per hour
Senior
$80 - $110
per hour