UX Lead Salary in San Francisco, California
San Francisco is a global tech hub with major employers like Salesforce and Airbnb. High living costs and intense competition for talent increase UX Lead salaries. Startups and established tech companies provide compensation packages.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$110,000 to $135,000
Average (per year)
$123,000
Entry-level positions are affected by competition and high living costs.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$135,000 to $170,000
Average (per year)
$152,000
Mid-level UX Leads work at major tech firms and fast-growing startups, with compensation reflecting market demand.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$170,000 to $200,000
Average (per year)
$185,000
Senior roles typically involve managing teams and overseeing product strategy in global companies.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$200,000+
Principal and lead UX professionals hold senior positions in the industry.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$65 - $80
per hour
Mid-level
$80 - $110
per hour
Senior
$110 - $150
per hour