MediaOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Communications Director Salary in Los Angeles
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$257,369/yr
Typical range: $229,628 – $280,647
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Communications Director salary by experience level in Los Angeles
Communications Director Salary Progression in Los Angeles
From entry-level through staff — based on BLS OEWS percentile data
| Experience Level | Years | Percentile | Annual Salary | Monthly | vs Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | 0 yrs | 0 yrs | $125,008 | $10,417 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $154,421 | $12,868 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $174,030 | $14,503 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $198,542 | $16,545 | +59% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $257,369 | $21,447 | +106% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $313,255 | $26,105 | +151% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $327,226 | $27,269 | +162% |
Current Salary
$257,369
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $124/hr
Next Level Target
$313,255
Principal · 14
+$56Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
44/100
Below Average
+8% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Communications Director salary in Los Angeles, CA?
Staff / Lead Communications Directors in Los Angeles, CA earn approximately $257K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Communications Director make per hour in Los Angeles, CA?
Based on $257K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $124/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Communications Director in Los Angeles, CA?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Communications Director in Los Angeles, CA earns $230K–$281K/yr.