Creative Director Salary in Iowa, United States
Des Moines pays a median $69,000. The figure reflects demand from advertising agencies and retail brands that rely on visual storytelling to attract Midwestern consumers.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$48,500 to $61,500
Average (per year)
$55,000
Entry roles support marketing teams in local tech startups or service companies.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$62,500 to $77,000
Average (per year)
$69,000
Mid-level professionals manage brand and digital campaigns for regional firms.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$77,500 to $92,500
Average (per year)
$84,750
Senior directors supervise creative strategy in larger companies or tech businesses.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$95,000+
Principal-level positions are found in technology or financial services firms.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$28 - $38
per hour
Mid-level
$39 - $54
per hour
Senior
$55 - $69
per hour
Nationally, creative directors earn around $85,000, so Iowa's median sits below the average.