UX Designer Salary in Palo Alto, California
Palo Alto sits at the heart of Silicon Valley, home to tech giants like Tesla and VMware. High living costs and strong startup activity increase local salaries. Design talent competes for positions in a active market.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$95,000 to $120,000
Average (per year)
$107,000
Entry-level designers work at startups or large technology companies, with starting salaries reflecting market conditions.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$120,000 to $150,000
Average (per year)
$134,000
Mid-level designers work on product teams at technology firms and can receive stock options in addition to salary.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$150,000 to $190,000
Average (per year)
$170,000
Senior designers lead UX strategy for employers and earn senior-level salaries in the Bay Area.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$190,000+
Principal and lead designers take on cross-functional leadership and may receive broad compensation packages.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$50 - $70
per hour
Mid-level
$70 - $110
per hour
Senior
$110 - $160
per hour