VP of Design Salary in Santa Cruz, California
Santa Cruz sits near Silicon Valley and has a high cost of living. Salaries reflect the competitive Bay Area market, but also the smaller employer size found locally.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$135,000 to $160,000
Average (per year)
$147,500
Early-career VPs in Santa Cruz often lead smaller creative teams at local tech startups.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$160,000 to $185,000
Average (per year)
$172,500
Mid-level VPs in Santa Cruz work at expanding firms or satellite offices.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$185,000 to $220,000
Average (per year)
$202,500
Senior VPs direct established creative departments in Santa Cruz.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$220,000+
Lead executives with deep experience receive compensation packages at local employers.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$70 - $95
per hour
Mid-level
$95 - $130
per hour
Senior
$130 - $170
per hour