UI Designer Salary in Berkeley, California
Berkeley sits next to major Bay Area cities. High housing costs and competition from San Francisco affect UI designer salaries. Local agencies and research labs employ experienced designers.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$68,000 to $89,000
Average (per year)
$78,000
Recent graduates start design roles at startups, education‑tech firms, or research labs in Berkeley, with wages reflecting local market conditions.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$90,000 to $120,000
Average (per year)
$105,000
Mid-level designers work for SaaS companies, UC Berkeley‑affiliated projects, or local agencies.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$122,000 to $152,000
Average (per year)
$135,000
Senior designers lead projects for tech startups or consulting firms.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$155,000+
Principal-level designers work at major Bay Area tech employers, research institutes, or international companies.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$30 - $55
per hour
Mid-level
$60 - $90
per hour
Senior
$95 - $140
per hour