UI Designer Salary in Santa Cruz, California
Santa Cruz sits between Silicon Valley and the Monterey Bay. Various local organizations hire UI designers. Housing costs can influence salary offers.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$62,000 to $77,000
Average (per year)
$70,000
Entry positions attract recent graduates or new designers, often with internships at local agencies or tech startups.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$78,000 to $93,000
Average (per year)
$85,000
Mid-level UI designers work with companies, building deeper portfolios and project experience.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$95,000 to $115,000
Average (per year)
$104,000
Senior roles require strong leadership and collaboration skills, supporting digital products for UCSC, local health organizations, and e-commerce firms.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$118,000+
Principal designers oversee design systems or lead entire product teams, typically with hybrid roles at regional tech companies.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$32 - $48
per hour
Mid-level
$50 - $70
per hour
Senior
$72 - $100
per hour