Commercial and Industrial Designer Salary in California
Based on 5K+ workers in California
Median Annual Salary (CA)
$100,770
$48.447/hr
vs National Average
$81,843
+23.1% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$63K – $168K
5K employed in California
Commercial and Industrial Designer salary in California averages $100,770 per year, significantly outpacing national figures by 23 percent. With approximately 5,300 professionals working in this field across the state, California offers competitive compensation for designers who develop products and commercial spaces. The salary range spans from $62,860 to $168,490, reflecting considerable variation based on experience and specialization.
Several factors influence earning potential for designers in California. Years of experience, educational background, and industry sector all play important roles in determining individual compensation. Geographic location within California, company size, and portfolio strength further impact salary levels. Designers working in major metropolitan areas or specialized industries typically command higher wages than those in smaller markets or entry-level positions.
Salary Distribution — Commercial and Industrial Designer in California
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $62,860 |
| 25th percentile | $76,060 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $100,770 |
| 75th percentile | $133,190 |
| 90th percentile | $168,490 |
Historical Salary Trend — Commercial and Industrial Designer in California vs National
| Year | Median Salary (United States) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $86,610 |
| 2023 | $84,190 |
| 2024 | $93,300 |
| 2025 | $100,770 |
| Year | California Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | $86,610 | $74,737 |
| 2023 | $84,190 | $75,423 |
| 2024 | $93,300 | $77,357 |
| 2025 | $100,770 | $81,843 |
Commercial and Industrial Designer Salary by Experience Level in California
Commercial and Industrial Designer Salary in Other States
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do commercial and industrial designers make in California?
- Commercial and industrial designers in California earn a median salary of $100,770 per year, or approximately $48 per hour. This is significantly higher than the national average, representing a 23.1% premium for working in California.
What is the salary range for industrial designers in California?
- The salary range for commercial and industrial designers in California spans from $62,860 at the lower end to $168,490 at the upper end. This wide range reflects differences in experience, specialization, and employer type within the field.
Is being a commercial designer in California better paid than the national average?
- Yes, commercial and industrial designers in California earn 23.1% more than the national average. With a median salary of $100,770 per year in California, the state offers significantly higher compensation compared to most other regions in the United States.
How many commercial and industrial designers work in California?
- There are approximately 5,300 commercial and industrial designers currently employed in California. This represents a substantial workforce in the state's design industry.