UX Lead Salary in South San Francisco, California

South San Francisco is known for its biotech and life‑sciences sector. Salaries are higher in the Bay Area. In this market, UX Leads work with teams across both established enterprises and rapidly growing startups.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

$108,000 to $130,000

Average (per year)

$119,000

Entry‑level designers begin their careers at biotech, pharmaceutical, or software startups.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

$131,000 to $152,000

Average (per year)

$140,000

Mid‑level UX Leads partner with SaaS and life‑sciences firms in the region.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

$153,000 to $172,000

Average (per year)

$162,000

Senior UX professionals lead design efforts for biotech companies and technology divisions in the Bay Area.

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

$173,000+

Principal UX leaders shape product vision within multinational technology and pharmaceutical headquarters.

Hourly Rates

For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.

Junior

$54 - $70

per hour

Mid-level

$71 - $94

per hour

Senior

$95 - $120

per hour