Design Director Salary in Iowa, United States
Iowa's midwestern location keeps living costs modest, and the median salary for design directors is $89,500. Many firms operate from Des Moines. Corporate headquarters and health‑care providers compete for creative leadership.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$65,000 to $79,500
Average (per year)
$71,750
Recent graduates start in smaller local agencies or agricultural companies.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$80,000 to $98,000
Average (per year)
$89,500
Those with several years of experience move into roles managing small teams or projects.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$98,501 to $118,500
Average (per year)
$108,000
Senior directors lead creative direction for larger regional employers or local manufacturing firms.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$119,500+
Veterans in principal roles oversee multi-location teams and set design strategy for county-wide initiatives.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$37 - $49
per hour
Mid-level
$50 - $65
per hour
Senior
$65 - $82
per hour
Nationally, the median design director salary sits near $110,000. Iowa's figure trails by about $20,000, reflecting lower living expenses.