Design Director Salary in Sweden
The median mid‑level salary in Sweden is kr607,500 per year. Salaries in Stockholm and Gothenburg are above the national average, whereas smaller agencies are nearer to it. These figures relate to visual strategy positions in digital product teams.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
kr482,500 to kr560,000
Average (per year)
kr520,000
Employees at this stage work with smaller local agencies and retail chains.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
kr565,000 to kr655,000
Average (per year)
kr607,500
Mid-level directors manage teams in regional firms or municipal organizations.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
kr660,000 to kr755,000
Average (per year)
kr707,500
Senior directors drive design strategy for manufacturing companies and healthcare groups.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
kr760,000+
Principal directors oversee large projects and consult for higher education or regional government.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
kr323 - kr430
per hour
Mid-level
kr435 - kr598
per hour
Senior
kr600 - kr840
per hour
Market Overview
Senior creative openings are common in Stockholm's design studios and fintech startups. Gothenburg's automotive and gaming sectors also hire directors to shape brand experiences. Some talent moves to Malmö, where salaries are competitive and living expenses are lower.