Creative Director Salary in Ohio, United States
Ohio is located in the Midwest. A median Creative Director earns $67,000 a year, reflecting the balance between corporate demand and the state's lower living expenses.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$48,000 to $59,000
Average (per year)
$54,000
Starting out, creative directors work for small marketing agencies or local businesses.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$59,000 to $75,500
Average (per year)
$67,000
Mid-career professionals manage larger projects and collaborate with manufacturing and healthcare clients.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$75,500 to $93,500
Average (per year)
$83,750
Senior roles involve direct oversight of branding and creative strategy for regional companies.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$94,500+
Veteran directors lead creative departments for larger local organizations or chain operations.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$28 - $38
per hour
Mid-level
$39 - $52
per hour
Senior
$53 - $68
per hour
Nationally, Creative Directors average around $85,000. Ohio's median sits roughly $18,000 lower.