VP of Design Salary in San Diego, California
San Diego's tech, biotech, and defense sectors influence VP of Design salaries. The city draws talent from UCSD. Compensation for experienced candidates reflects market conditions.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$136,000 to $162,000
Average (per year)
$149,000
Entry-level VPs in San Diego work with emerging tech, biotech, or defense startups.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$163,000 to $192,000
Average (per year)
$177,000
Salaries increase as VPs gain experience at larger SaaS or medical device firms with national reach.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$193,000 to $225,000
Average (per year)
$209,000
Senior leaders in design work for major employers or scale-ups, managing large teams and complex projects.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$226,000+
Design executives at the principal level receive higher salaries.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$65 - $83
per hour
Mid-level
$84 - $102
per hour
Senior
$103 - $123
per hour