Product Designer Salary in Santa Cruz, California
Santa Cruz is located near Silicon Valley. Design roles are found in various startups. Commuter access to larger Bay Area employers is a factor in the local job market.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$69,000 to $83,000
Average (per year)
$75,500
Recent graduates join startups and small creative agencies.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$83,000 to $102,000
Average (per year)
$92,500
Mid-level designers work for regional tech firms or remote Silicon Valley teams.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$103,000 to $126,000
Average (per year)
$114,500
Senior talent manages complex product portfolios and collaborates with established Bay Area companies.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$127,000+
Principal designers advise fast-growing startups or oversee design operations for tech firms.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$37 - $47
per hour
Mid-level
$48 - $62
per hour
Senior
$63 - $88
per hour