UX Designer Salary in San Jose, California
San Jose has a high cost of living driven by housing and amenities. Major software, hardware, and internet firms operate in the region. Competition for experienced designers exists.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$95,000 to $120,000
Average (per year)
$107,500
Junior designers are employed by startups, global tech giants, and hardware firms.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$120,000 to $147,000
Average (per year)
$133,500
Mid-level designers join teams at established companies or fast-scaling software firms.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$147,000 to $182,000
Average (per year)
$164,500
Senior designers direct UX projects and influence product strategy for major employers like Cisco, PayPal, or Adobe.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$182,000+
Principal designers manage teams or direct experience design at international tech companies.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$48 - $73
per hour
Mid-level
$73 - $95
per hour
Senior
$95 - $132
per hour