Product Designer Salary in San Jose, California

San Jose sits at the center of Silicon Valley and houses major tech employers. Salary levels are influenced by demand. The cost of living is high, and product designers' salaries reflect this.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

$84,000 to $110,000

Average (per year)

$98,000

The tech sector contributes to strong starting salaries for entry-level designers in San Jose.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

$110,000 to $138,000

Average (per year)

$124,000

Mid-level designers work at software companies, hardware startups, and major tech giants.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

$138,000 to $165,000

Average (per year)

$150,000

Senior designers lead projects.

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

$165,000+

Principal designers in San Jose are employed by larger companies.

Hourly Rates

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

Junior

$42 - $56

per hour

Mid-level

$56 - $72

per hour

Senior

$72 - $95

per hour