Web Designer Salary in Santa Monica, California

Santa Monica has high living expenses. Web designer salaries are included in Southern California salary data. Entertainment, e‑commerce, and marketing firms employ designers.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

$57,000 to $68,000

Average (per year)

$62,500

New hires work with media companies or entertainment startups.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

$69,000 to $90,000

Average (per year)

$79,500

Mid-level designers gain experience in e‑commerce and digital media.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

$91,000 to $115,000

Average (per year)

$103,000

Veteran designers work on projects for large companies.

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

$116,000+

Principal designers manage creative direction or web projects and lead teams.

Hourly Rates

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

Junior

$29 - $38

per hour

Mid-level

$39 - $55

per hour

Senior

$56 - $70

per hour