Brand Designer Salary in Hawaii, United States
In Honolulu, a mid‑level brand designer makes $61,000 annually. The pay reflects demand from hotels, cruise lines, and boutique retailers that use visual identities to attract visitors. Employers add housing assistance to help offset the islands' steep cost of living.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$43,000 to $54,000
Average (per year)
$48,500
Moderate pay is typical for starting designers at agencies or tourism firms while they build skills.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$55,000 to $67,000
Average (per year)
$61,000
Rising experience leads to higher wages for mid-level designers in retail, hospitality, or tech.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$68,000 to $81,000
Average (per year)
$74,500
Branding for local corporations or large tourism groups is led by senior designers with deep expertise.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$82,000+
Major projects for international resorts or high-profile consulting are overseen by principal designers.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$23 - $34
per hour
Mid-level
$35 - $48
per hour
Senior
$50 - $65
per hour
At $61,000, Honolulu's median sits below the U.S. Average. The average for brand designers hovers near $75,000. However, the higher wages come with housing subsidies that narrow the overall gap.