Design Director Salary in Ohio, United States
Ohio's midwestern location offers a median salary of $92,500 for design directors. Companies are located in Columbus and Cleveland.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$67,000 to $82,250
Average (per year)
$75,000
Entry-level Design Directors join small agencies or manufacturing firms and handle basic team leadership.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$83,000 to $101,500
Average (per year)
$92,500
Mid-level professionals work with larger local employers and manage multiple design projects.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$101,500 to $120,000
Average (per year)
$110,500
Senior Design Directors in Northridge lead diverse teams and partner with corporate clients or regional manufacturers.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$121,000+
Principal and Lead Directors guide creative direction for major employers or run boutique consultancies.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$37 - $52
per hour
Mid-level
$52 - $70
per hour
Senior
$70 - $90
per hour
National surveys place the median design director salary near $105,000, above Ohio's figure. Ohio is noted for lower costs.