VP of Design Salary in Orange County, California
Design executives find opportunities in Orange County. Newport Beach and Irvine have high housing costs. Major employers include Blizzard Entertainment, Edwards Lifesciences, and regional arms of national banks.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$145,000 to $185,000
Average (per year)
$162,000
Younger VPs join fast-growing SaaS startups or product agencies in Irvine or Costa Mesa.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$185,000 to $225,000
Average (per year)
$204,000
Mid-level VPs manage larger design teams at established tech firms and support real estate, medical device, or e-commerce clients.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$225,000 to $280,000
Average (per year)
$252,000
Senior leaders oversee design for regional headquarters of Fortune 500 companies or direct strategy at regional unicorns.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$280,000+
Experienced principals negotiate equity, bonuses, and total compensation packages.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$75 - $110
per hour
Mid-level
$110 - $155
per hour
Senior
$155 - $220
per hour