Design Director Salary in Colorado, United States
Denver pays Design Directors $107,500 median. This figure reflects demand in the region's economy.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$80,000 to $96,000
Average (per year)
$88,000
New directors in Edgewater work with smaller agencies or startups, reflecting the city's modest business scene.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$96,500 to $120,000
Average (per year)
$107,500
Mid-level professionals find opportunities at Denver-adjacent firms and regional creative shops.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$120,000 to $139,500
Average (per year)
$129,000
Senior directors oversee multi-disciplinary teams for established local brands.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$141,000+
Principal roles anchor creative direction for larger organizations or regional offices, with expanded responsibilities.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$43 - $60
per hour
Mid-level
$60 - $80
per hour
Senior
$80 - $110
per hour
Compared with the national median of about $95,000, Denver's pay sits roughly $12,500 higher.