Design Director Salary in Orange, Ohio

Orange sits just east of Cleveland. Salaries for senior roles in established firms are higher.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

$69,000 to $86,000

Average (per year)

$78,000

Entry-level directors start at creative agencies, local tech startups, or in retail marketing teams.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

$87,000 to $104,000

Average (per year)

$95,000

Mid-level roles require managing cross-functional teams for larger Cleveland-area employers.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

$105,000 to $122,000

Average (per year)

$113,000

Leads creative vision, mentors designers, and oversees brand‑consistent project execution.

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

$124,000+

Principal-level talent contributes to strategy at large firms or starts boutique agencies.

Hourly Rates

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

Junior

$42 - $60

per hour

Mid-level

$61 - $82

per hour

Senior

$83 - $107

per hour