UX Designer Salary in Santa Monica, California
Santa Monica hosts many tech startups and entertainment firms. High housing costs and a large pool of digital employers make competition fierce.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$80,000 to $95,000
Average (per year)
$87,000
Entry-level designers find jobs with media, entertainment, or e-commerce firms headquartered in the area.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$95,000 to $120,000
Average (per year)
$108,000
Mid-level roles support startups, digital agencies, and major tech companies with LA offices.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$120,000 to $145,000
Average (per year)
$132,000
Senior designers lead projects for entertainment platforms or health tech ventures.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$145,000+
Principal-level roles manage teams at major media groups or large SaaS companies.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$40 - $60
per hour
Mid-level
$60 - $95
per hour
Senior
$95 - $150
per hour