Design Director Salary in Denver, North Carolina

Cost of living and salary levels differ across locations. Design director compensation varies with employer size and metro proximity.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

$83,000 to $98,000

Average (per year)

$90,500

Early-career design directors in Denver work at local agencies or small tech firms.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

$99,000 to $117,000

Average (per year)

$107,000

Manage design projects, guide junior designers, and ensure visual strategy aligns with brand objectives.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

$120,000 to $137,000

Average (per year)

$128,000

Set creative direction, coach designers, and coordinate brand-consistent project delivery across teams.

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

$140,000+

Directors with over ten years of experience earn higher salaries, especially when leading teams for national offices.

Hourly Rates

For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.

Junior

$48 - $60

per hour

Mid-level

$61 - $80

per hour

Senior

$81 - $110

per hour