MediaOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Communications Director Salary in San Francisco
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$266,925/yr
Typical range: $238,154 – $291,068
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Communications Director salary by experience level in San Francisco
Communications Director Salary Progression in San Francisco
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 | $129,649 | $10,804 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $160,155 | $13,346 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $180,492 | $15,041 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $205,914 | $17,160 | +59% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $266,925 | $22,244 | +106% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $324,886 | $27,074 | +151% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $339,377 | $28,281 | +162% |
Current Salary
$266,925
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $128/hr
Next Level Target
$324,886
Principal · 14
+$58Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
44/100
Below Average
+8% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Communications Director salary in San Francisco, CA?
Staff / Lead Communications Directors in San Francisco, CA earn approximately $267K 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 San Francisco, CA?
Based on $267K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $128/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Communications Director in San Francisco, CA?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Communications Director in San Francisco, CA earns $238K–$291K/yr.