Design Director Salary in Erie County, New York
Erie County includes manufacturing, education, and healthcare sectors, and Buffalo hosts regional employers. Salaries in the area are influenced by local cost of living, and senior directors at large institutions earn compensation aligned with the local market. Changes in the regional tech sector impact demand for design leaders.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$80,000 to $100,000
Average (per year)
$90,000
Entry-level Design Directors in Erie County receive salaries that reflect the local market.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$100,000 to $120,000
Average (per year)
$110,000
Mid-level directors work for manufacturing, healthcare, or higher education employers based in Buffalo and surrounding cities.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$120,000 to $145,000
Average (per year)
$132,500
Senior Design Directors lead teams for regional businesses or manage creative departments at institutions.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$145,000+
Principal and Lead roles are associated with senior leadership positions in large organizations.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$50 - $70
per hour
Mid-level
$71 - $95
per hour
Senior
$96 - $120
per hour