UX Lead Salary in San Jose, California
San Jose is located in Silicon Valley and has a large tech workforce. Major employers such as Adobe, Cisco, and eBay affect salary expectations. Housing costs and competition influence pay levels.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$100,000 to $125,000
Average (per year)
$112,500
Entry-level UX Leads in San Jose work at large tech firms or fast-growing startups. The cost of living influences starting salaries.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$125,000 to $155,000
Average (per year)
$140,000
Mid-level roles exist at Silicon Valley companies, consumer electronics manufacturers, and enterprise software firms. Pay is influenced by competition for talent.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$155,000 to $185,000
Average (per year)
$170,000
Senior UX Leads' salaries are affected by the presence of global tech headquarters. Benefits and equity supplement base compensation.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$185,000+
Principal/Lead roles in San Jose earn competitive starting salaries. Large public companies add bonuses or stock grants.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$60 - $90
per hour
Mid-level
$90 - $130
per hour
Senior
$130 - $180
per hour