UX Designer Salary in Santa Barbara County, California
Santa Barbara County combines smaller cities, agriculture, and university research centers. Salaries for UX Designers vary across the county, with higher earnings in urban areas and lower rates in rural locations.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$62,000 to $81,000
Average (per year)
$70,500
Early-career designers often work in education, local government, or regional tech startups, earning salaries that reflect both urban and rural influences.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$81,000 to $95,000
Average (per year)
$87,000
Mid‑career professionals are employed in places such as Goleta and Santa Maria, supporting sectors like agriculture, tourism, and local software firms.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$95,000 to $112,000
Average (per year)
$102,000
Senior designers can command higher pay when working for medical‑technology companies or as consultants to regional businesses.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$112,000+
Principal designers typically collaborate with larger employers or lead teams within software and aerospace firms in the county.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$32 - $50
per hour
Mid-level
$50 - $75
per hour
Senior
$75 - $110
per hour