Design Director Salary in Cardiff, United Kingdom
Cardiff offers a median Design Director salary of £51,500 per year. The figure reflects local demand, while housing costs remain below the UK average.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
£39,000 to £47,000
Average (per year)
£43,000
New directors find roles with media companies, government contractors, or digital agencies.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
£47,000 to £56,000
Average (per year)
£51,500
Mid-level professionals manage teams and handle branding work for firms in finance, media, and education.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
£56,000 to £64,000
Average (per year)
£60,000
Leadership at this level includes overseeing major projects in the city.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
£64,000+
Principal and lead directors work for national broadcasters or large consultancies based in Cardiff.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
£23 - £33
per hour
Mid-level
£34 - £48
per hour
Senior
£49 - £75
per hour
Across the UK, Design Directors earn £55,000, so Cardiff's median sits slightly below the national mean while offering lower living costs.