UI/UX Designer Salary in Santa Monica, California
Santa Monica hosts many tech startups, digital agencies, and streaming media firms. High living costs and industry competition influence UI/UX designer salaries.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$78,000 to $94,000
Average (per year)
$86,000
Entry-level designers work with digital media, consumer apps, or entertainment tech companies based in Santa Monica.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$94,000 to $120,000
Average (per year)
$107,000
Mid-level roles support large creative agencies, startups, and streaming services, with compensation reflecting local demand.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$120,000 to $144,000
Average (per year)
$132,000
Senior UI/UX designers lead teams for technology, media, or e-commerce firms clustered near the beach.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$144,000+
Principal designers manage design for fast-growing SaaS or entertainment platforms.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$38 - $53
per hour
Mid-level
$53 - $78
per hour
Senior
$78 - $110
per hour