How to Become a Graphic Designers in California
Graphic Designers in California earn a median salary of $76,440/year, which is 25% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~4.2%. After taxes and rent, a graphic designers takes home approximately $3,498/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a graphic designers can afford in California
Becoming a graphic designers in California
Meet education requirements
Graphic Designers positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many graphic designers positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for graphic designerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 28,310 graphic designers. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont.
Graphic Designers salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $99K | $47.37/hr | 1,510 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $89K | $43.02/hr | 4,050 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $76K | $36.45/hr | 14,060 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $75K | $36.28/hr | 1,070 |
| Napa | $74K | $35.8/hr | 90 |
| Modesto | $70K | $33.8/hr | 160 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $68K | $32.69/hr | 230 |
| Salinas | $67K | $32.2/hr | 80 |
| Vallejo | $66K | $31.93/hr | 100 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $66K | $31.66/hr | 400 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $65K | $31.21/hr | 120 |
| Yuba City | $62K | $29.86/hr | 30 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $62K | $29.83/hr | 1,330 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $61K | $29.55/hr | 140 |
| El Centro | $61K | $29.23/hr | 30 |
Graphic Designers salary range in California
Graphic Designers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a graphic designers make in California?▼
The median graphic designers salary in California is $76,440 per year ($36.75/hr). This is 25% above the national median of $61,300. Salaries range from $44,650 to $128,270.
What are the requirements to become a graphic designers in California?▼
Graphic Designers positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a graphic designers afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $76,440, a graphic designers in California would take home approximately $4,910/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 28.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for graphic designers in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for graphic designers in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($98,530), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($89,490), Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim ($75,820). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for graphic designers?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.2%. On a $76,440 salary, this means roughly $3,247/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.