Product Designer Salary in South San Francisco, California

South San Francisco sits just north of Silicon Valley. Product designers' salaries in the Bay Area are influenced by competition among employers. Salary expectations vary.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

$92,000 to $115,000

Average (per year)

$104,000

Entry-level designers often join biotech, SaaS, or logistics companies. Salaries in this area reflect local market conditions.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

$115,000 to $135,000

Average (per year)

$124,000

Mid-level roles support complex projects for biotech giants and tech startups. Designers balance UX, research, and product strategy.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

$135,000 to $158,000

Average (per year)

$146,000

Senior designers often drive cross-functional teams at major employers. These roles require deep expertise in digital product development.

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

$158,000+

Principal roles exist at biotech headquarters and SaaS firms. These leaders influence company-wide design direction and innovation.

Hourly Rates

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

Junior

$47 - $60

per hour

Mid-level

$60 - $80

per hour

Senior

$80 - $105

per hour