Design Director Salary in Massachusetts, United States
Boston's design teams reward experience with a median of $109,500 a year. Mid-level directors find this figure reflects demand.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$80,000 to $98,000
Average (per year)
$90,000
Recent graduates start their careers in Weymouth.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$98,000 to $122,000
Average (per year)
$109,500
Designers with several years of experience work in local agencies and healthcare firms.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$122,000 to $144,000
Average (per year)
$133,500
Senior roles involve collaboration with regional enterprises and tech startups.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$145,000+
Design leaders work at consultancies and healthcare networks.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$40 - $60
per hour
Mid-level
$61 - $85
per hour
Senior
$85 - $120
per hour
Nationally, design directors earn around $95,000, so Boston's median sits roughly $14,500 above the average.