UX Designer Salary in Pasadena, California
Pasadena has a strong tech and research presence with employers like Caltech and NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. Salaries are higher due to demand for digital talent and the cost of living. Employers in the area hire UX designers.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$75,000 to $95,000
Average (per year)
$87,000
New designers join established firms or research labs and earn entry-level wages.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$95,000 to $120,000
Average (per year)
$107,000
Mid-level designers contribute to digital teams at employers like Caltech, NASA/JPL, or local media companies.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$120,000 to $145,000
Average (per year)
$132,000
Senior designers supervise UX across multiple products and work with cross‑disciplinary teams.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$145,000+
Principal or lead designers oversee UX for large organizations or regional employers.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$45 - $65
per hour
Mid-level
$65 - $95
per hour
Senior
$95 - $130
per hour