Updated 2026

UI Designer Salary in San Jose 2026

Average Base
$92,000
+4.2% from 2025
Typical Range
$65,000$145,000
10th - 90th percentile
Total Comp
~$110,400
Includes Equity/Bonus

San Jose, CA continues to hire experienced UI Designers, especially for teams building customer-focused digital products. Salaries vary by seniority and company stage, but top performers can earn well above the local median. UI Designers in San Jose, CA often collaborate across research, product strategy, and design systems. Many employers in San Jose, CA are investing in design systems to scale product quality efficiently.

Compensation is influenced by company stage, product complexity, and the ability to drive measurable outcomes. Experience with Figma, prototyping, and usability testing remains a core expectation. Local teams are prioritizing user-centered design to improve retention and reduce churn. Each listing includes role details, compensation ranges, and links to apply directly. If you are early in your search, start with the highest-signal listings and track applications consistently.

Salary Distribution

Cost of Living Analysis

San Jose has a cost of living index of 155, which can influence take-home value even when salaries appear higher. Consider housing, transportation, and tax differences when evaluating offers.

CityMedian
New York$120,000
San Francisco$124,000
Seattle$115,000
Boston$110,000
Los Angeles$110,000

Frequently Asked Questions

Are UI Designer roles in San Jose, CA mostly remote or on-site?
Many employers offer hybrid flexibility, with a mix of in-office collaboration and remote focus days. Fully remote roles are common for senior candidates, especially at distributed teams.
Which industries are hiring UI Designers in San Jose, CA?
Fintech, healthcare, SaaS, and consumer marketplaces are all hiring UI Designers in San Jose, CA. Enterprise teams also invest in UX to improve retention and satisfaction.
How competitive is the UI Designer job market in San Jose, CA?
Competition varies by specialization. Candidates with strong case studies and measurable outcomes stand out quickly in the hiring process.