UI/UX Designer Salary in San Diego, California
San Diego's biotech, defense, and SaaS industries shape the UI/UX job market. High cost of living and competition for talent drive wages. Employers and a growing startup scene provide opportunities.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$64,000 to $82,000
Average (per year)
$73,000
Graduates often join digital marketing agencies, health tech startups, or defense contractors.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$82,000 to $105,000
Average (per year)
$93,500
Mid-level designers work for biotech firms, SaaS companies, and large employers like Qualcomm.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$105,000 to $127,000
Average (per year)
$116,000
Senior roles include leading agile teams or shaping UX for major enterprise platforms.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$127,000+
At principal level, designers guide strategic product vision for top tech employers or manage design systems across divisions.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$32 - $42
per hour
Mid-level
$42 - $62
per hour
Senior
$62 - $95
per hour