Creative Director Salary in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Milwaukee has healthcare, manufacturing, and financial services sectors. Salaries for agencies and in-house creative teams reflect Milwaukee's cost of living.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

$54,000 to $69,000

Average (per year)

$62,000

Starting salaries in Milwaukee are influenced by the presence of advertising agencies and regional branches of national ds.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

$69,000 to $90,000

Average (per year)

$80,000

With experience, mid-level Creative Directors lead project teams at design firms, media companies, and corporate marketing departments.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

$90,000 to $112,000

Average (per year)

$101,000

Senior roles command higher salaries, as employers like Harley-Davidson and Northwestern Mutual invest in creative leadership for brand campaigns.

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

$112,000+

Leads brand vision, mentors teams, and oversees multi‑channel campaigns for major clients.

Hourly Rates

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

Junior

$30 - $42

per hour

Mid-level

$42 - $58

per hour

Senior

$58 - $73

per hour