Creative Director Salary in Onondaga County

Onondaga County centers on Syracuse. Marketing agencies serve local colleges and regional brands. The area's lower cost of living affects salary bands for creative professionals.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

$55,000 to $67,000

Average (per year)

$61,000

Graduates moving into creative roles in Onondaga County start at marketing firms or media outlets around Syracuse.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

$68,000 to $89,000

Average (per year)

$78,000

Mid-level Creative Directors oversee branding projects for regional companies or higher education institutions.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

$90,000 to $108,000

Average (per year)

$99,000

Senior professionals in this area drive campaigns for larger employers, including healthcare, higher education, and tech startups.

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

$109,000+

Leaders at the principal level work with major local employers or run their own creative consultancies.

Hourly Rates

For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.

Junior

$30 - $42

per hour

Mid-level

$43 - $60

per hour

Senior

$61 - $80

per hour