UX Lead Salary in Santa Monica, California
Santa Monica has a tech sector and competition for design talent. UX Leads earn salaries driven by demand from media, entertainment, and software companies.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$95,000 to $120,000
Average (per year)
$107,000
Entertainment, ad tech, and SaaS startups along Silicon Beach offer opportunities for entry-level UX Leads.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$122,000 to $143,000
Average (per year)
$132,000
Gaming companies, fintechs, and e-commerce platforms in Santa Monica hire mid-level UX Leads.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$144,000 to $168,000
Average (per year)
$156,000
Senior UX Leads direct teams at media companies or lead product design for consumer brands.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$169,000+
Principal UX Leads oversee strategy for digital projects and mentor teams at tech firms.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$50 - $75
per hour
Mid-level
$80 - $110
per hour
Senior
$115 - $150
per hour