Design Director Salary in Tennessee, United States
Nashville drives Design Director pay to $90,500 median. Companies reward seasoned leaders with compensation packages. Cost of living stays below national average.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$67,000 to $83,000
Average (per year)
$76,000
Assist senior designers, develop concepts, and coordinate project assets under director guidance.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$83,000 to $98,000
Average (per year)
$90,500
With a few years leading design teams, professionals find local roles.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$99,000 to $115,000
Average (per year)
$107,500
Senior directors work for larger employers, overseeing branding or digital transformation projects.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$116,000+
Veterans in this field work locally.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$38 - $52
per hour
Mid-level
$53 - $68
per hour
Senior
$68 - $89
per hour
Nationally, Design Directors earn around $110,000, so Tennessee's median sits noticeably lower.