Design Director Salary in Salt Lake County
Salt Lake County hosts a range of tech employers and design consultancies, influencing local salary levels. The high cost of living near the Wasatch Front and competition for talent help drive compensation upward.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$95,000 to $120,000
Average (per year)
$107,000
Tech companies and creative agencies in Salt Lake County influence starting salary levels.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$120,000 to $145,000
Average (per year)
$132,000
Mid-level directors work at SaaS firms or healthcare systems with strong design teams.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$145,000 to $175,000
Average (per year)
$160,000
Senior roles appear at large employers such as financial services and major software firms.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$175,000+
Leads strategic design vision, mentors senior teams, and drives cross‑functional brand initiatives.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$50 - $75
per hour
Mid-level
$75 - $110
per hour
Senior
$110 - $170
per hour