Design Director Salary in Onondaga County
Syracuse has a notable education and media presence in Onondaga County. Design Directors work in higher education and healthcare. Salaries reflect the local cost of living.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$70,000 to $89,000
Average (per year)
$80,000
Entry-level Design Directors work for local media, universities, or city agencies.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$89,000 to $108,000
Average (per year)
$97,000
Mid-level professionals join regional marketing firms or growing software companies.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$108,000 to $123,000
Average (per year)
$115,000
Senior roles oversee larger creative teams in education, insurance, or tech-adjacent businesses.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$123,000+
Principal Design Directors work in large regional headquarters or high-growth tech startups.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$34 - $48
per hour
Mid-level
$48 - $63
per hour
Senior
$63 - $80
per hour