Design Director Salary in King County
Seattle and the wider King County area have a strong tech industry and high cost of living. Salaries for creative leadership vary across employers. Employers seek design talent.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$106,000 to $130,000
Average (per year)
$118,000
Entry-level salaries in King County reflect local market conditions.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$130,000 to $160,000
Average (per year)
$145,000
Mid-level directors work with large companies in aerospace, design consultancies, or digital agencies.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$160,000 to $195,000
Average (per year)
$177,000
Senior roles oversee teams at large technology and healthcare organizations.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$195,000+
Compensation for principal-level directors can include equity in publicly traded firms.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$60 - $85
per hour
Mid-level
$85 - $110
per hour
Senior
$110 - $145
per hour