Design Director Salary in Texas, United States
Texas pays Design Directors a median $97,000. The figure reflects employment trends in Austin and Houston.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$70,000 to $88,000
Average (per year)
$78,500
Assist senior designers, develop visual concepts, and help coordinate project deliverables.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$88,000 to $107,500
Average (per year)
$97,000
Mid-level professionals work in corporate offices of refineries or regional design agencies.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$107,500 to $127,000
Average (per year)
$116,000
Leads cross-functional design teams, defines creative strategy, and ensures brand consistency across projects.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$127,500+
Leads strategic design vision, mentors senior teams, and drives cross‑functional product innovation.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$38 - $53
per hour
Mid-level
$54 - $70
per hour
Senior
$70 - $90
per hour
Nationally, Design Directors earn around $105,000 on average. Texas sits slightly below that mark, and its zero state income tax affects take‑home pay.