Product Designer Salary in Santa Monica, California
Santa Monica has a design community. Design salaries in the area are influenced by local market factors. Salary levels vary across companies.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$77,000 to $90,000
Average (per year)
$83,500
Early-career designers join media, tech startups, or digital marketing agencies, with starting salaries reflecting fierce competition and high rent.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$91,000 to $118,000
Average (per year)
$104,500
Mid-level designers are employed by tech firms, streaming services, and creative studios.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$119,000 to $143,000
Average (per year)
$131,000
Senior designers lead multi-product teams or define UX strategy for large digital organizations.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$144,000+
Principal designers drive innovation at regional headquarters or advise entertainment brands.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$43 - $56
per hour
Mid-level
$57 - $75
per hour
Senior
$76 - $110
per hour