Brand Designer Salary in Near North Side, Illinois
Near North Side is home to creative agencies. Cost of living is high, which pushes salaries upward. There is demand for skilled brand designers.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$54,000 to $63,000
Average (per year)
$58,500
Agencies and startups often hire starting designers, offering salaries that reflect Chicago's higher cost of living.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$65,000 to $85,000
Average (per year)
$75,000
Larger firms and established brands in retail and tech typically recruit mid-level designers.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$90,000 to $115,000
Average (per year)
$102,500
Global marketing agencies or corporate headquarters downtown frequently recruit senior designers.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$120,000+
Experience and strategic responsibilities lead to higher salaries for lead designers directing creative teams at major consibilities.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$28 - $35
per hour
Mid-level
$38 - $55
per hour
Senior
$60 - $90
per hour