UI Designer Salary in San Diego
2026 compensation data for UI Designer positions in San Diego, CA. Ranges from $65,000 (entry-level) to $179,000 (senior). Median: $112,000.
Median (Mid)
$112,000
$53.85/hr
vs National
+2%
US: $110,000
COL Index
140
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$179,000
Top of band
Salary Ranges by Experience Level
Detailed Compensation Breakdown
| Level | Annual Min | Annual Median | Annual Max | Hourly (Median) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–2 yrs) | $65,000 | $78,000 | $95,000 | $37.5/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $92,000 | $112,000 | $134,000 | $53.85/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $129,000 | $155,000 | $179,000 | $74.52/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in San Diego
A mid-level ui designer earning $112,000 in San Diego has the same buying power as $80,000 in an average US city, after adjusting for the local cost of living (COL index 140).
Cost of living comparisons use a base of 100 (US national average). Higher index = higher housing, transport, and consumer prices.
About UI Designer Salaries in San Diego
The median ui designer salary in San Diego, CA is $112,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 2% above the national median. With a cost of living index of 140 (national average = 100), San Diego offers a high cost of living that partially offsets the salary premium.
Entry-level ui designers in San Diego can expect to earn between $65,000 and $95,000 (about $37.5/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $179,000 ($179K annually, or about $86.06/hour).
These figures represent base salary only and do not include bonuses, equity, or benefits, which can add 20–50% to total compensation — especially at technology companies and in competitive markets like San Diego.
Frequently Asked Questions: UI Designer Salary in San Diego
What is the average UI Designer salary in San Diego?+
The average UI Designer salary in San Diego is $112,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $78,000 and senior-level pay reaches $155,000.
How much does an entry-level ui designer make in San Diego?+
Entry-level ui designers in San Diego earn between $65,000 and $95,000, with a median of $78,000 per year (about $37.5/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a UI Designer in San Diego?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a UI Designer in San Diego earns roughly $37.5/hour at entry-level, $53.85/hour at mid-level, and $74.52/hour at senior-level.
Is the UI Designer salary in San Diego higher than the US average?+
Yes — UI Designer salaries in San Diego are about 2% higher than the US national median of $110,000.
Does this include bonuses or equity?+
No — these figures are base salary only. Total compensation (base + bonus + equity + benefits) is typically 20–50% higher, and can be 2–3x at top technology and finance employers.
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