Design Director Salary in City of Portsmouth, Virginia
Portsmouth has a smaller population than nearby Norfolk. Design Directors here work mostly in local government, logistics, and healthcare. Salaries are below metro averages.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$76,000 to $95,000
Average (per year)
$86,000
New directors start in smaller agencies or municipal projects with limited budgets.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$96,000 to $118,000
Average (per year)
$105,000
Experienced professionals supervise creative teams or work with regional employers in healthcare and logistics.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$119,000 to $139,000
Average (per year)
$128,000
Senior directors manage larger projects and interact with city government or regional corporations.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$140,000+
Those at the top oversee multiple teams or consult for established companies across the Tidewater region.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$46 - $60
per hour
Mid-level
$61 - $78
per hour
Senior
$79 - $99
per hour