CreativeOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Game Designer Salary in Los Angeles
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$173,409/yr
Typical range: $179,805 – $232,115
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Game Designer salary by experience level in Los Angeles
Game Designer 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 | $83,995 | $7,000 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $108,381 | $9,032 | +29% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $126,444 | $10,537 | +51% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $143,063 | $11,922 | +70% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $173,409 | $14,451 | +106% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $197,253 | $16,438 | +135% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $203,214 | $16,935 | +142% |
Current Salary
$173,409
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $83/hr
Next Level Target
$197,253
Principal · 14
+$24Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
48/100
Below Average
+14% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Game Designer salary in Los Angeles, CA?
Staff / Lead Game Designers in Los Angeles, CA earn approximately $173K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Game Designer make per hour in Los Angeles, CA?
Based on $173K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $83/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Game Designer in Los Angeles, CA?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Game Designer in Los Angeles, CA earns $180K–$232K/yr.