Web Designer Salary in San Francisco, California

San Francisco is a global tech center with a dense population and sky-high living costs. Web designers earn salaries comparable to other professionals in the field. Local demand comes from a range of employers.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

$65,000 to $82,000

Average (per year)

$73,500

Entry-level web designers in San Francisco begin with entry-level compensation.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

$82,000 to $105,000

Average (per year)

$94,000

Mid-level designers are employed by technology companies.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

$105,000 to $125,000

Average (per year)

$115,000

Senior professionals hold leadership roles and receive senior-level compensation in California.

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

$125,000+

Principal-level designers work on major projects or lead teams for established companies.

Hourly Rates

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

Junior

$32 - $48

per hour

Mid-level

$48 - $65

per hour

Senior

$65 - $90

per hour