▼41%
$162,219
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$117k
MEDIAN
$162k
90%
$252k
The average salary for a Design Manager is $162,219 in 2025
Base Salary
$117k - $252k
Bonus
$5k - $24k
Profit Sharing
$0 - $10k
Total Pay
$122k - $245k
Is Average Experienced Design Manager with People Management Skills Salary in San Francisco, California your job title? Find out what you should be paid
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What is the Pay by Experience Level for Design Managers?
▼14%
What Do Design Managers Do?
Find your market worth – how it works:
Common Health Benefits for a Design Manager
Medical
100%
Dental
100%
Vision
83%
Gender Breakdown for Design Managers
Male
66.7%
Female
33.3%
This data is based on 3 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
FAQs About Design Managers
What is the highest pay for Design Managers in San Francisco?
Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Design Manager in San Francisco is $252k / year
What is the lowest pay for Design Managers in San Francisco?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Design Manager in San Francisco is $117k / year
How can Design Managers increase their salary?
Increasing your pay as a Design Manager is possible in different ways. Change of employer: Consider a career move to a new employer that is willing to pay higher for your skills. Level of Education: Gaining advanced degrees may allow this role to increase their income potential and qualify for promotions. Managing Experience: If you are a Design Manager that oversees more junior Design Managers, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.