CreativeOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Graphic Designer Salary in Los Angeles
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$119,095/yr
Typical range: $123,488 – $159,414
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Graphic Designer salary by experience level in Los Angeles
Graphic 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 | $57,687 | $4,807 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $74,434 | $6,203 | +29% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $86,840 | $7,237 | +51% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $98,253 | $8,188 | +70% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $119,095 | $9,925 | +106% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $135,471 | $11,289 | +135% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $139,565 | $11,630 | +142% |
Current Salary
$119,095
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $57/hr
Next Level Target
$135,471
Principal · 14
+$16Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
21/100
High Risk
+3% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Graphic Designer salary in Los Angeles, CA?
Staff / Lead Graphic Designers in Los Angeles, CA earn approximately $119K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Graphic Designer make per hour in Los Angeles, CA?
Based on $119K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $57/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Graphic Designer in Los Angeles, CA?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Graphic Designer in Los Angeles, CA earns $123K–$159K/yr.