UI Designer Salary in Santa Barbara, California
Santa Barbara is known for high living costs and a strong presence of education and tourism industries. There is demand for UI design skills. Pay here reflects housing prices and the limited number of large tech employers.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$55,000 to $68,000
Average (per year)
$61,500
Small agencies and startups offer modest pay.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$68,000 to $85,000
Average (per year)
$76,500
Salaries increase with experience.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$85,000 to $105,000
Average (per year)
$95,000
Senior designers work with established firms or research labs, earning compensation that reflects market rates.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$105,000+
Principal designers earn higher salaries at larger tech employers.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$28 - $38
per hour
Mid-level
$40 - $55
per hour
Senior
$56 - $70
per hour