Design Director Salary in Wisconsin, United States
Wisconsin's design talent earns a median of $94,750 a year. Cost of living is below the national average.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$70,000 to $86,000
Average (per year)
$77,500
Graduates and early-career hires begin in local design teams supporting manufacturing, healthcare, and retail projects.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$86,500 to $104,000
Average (per year)
$94,750
Directors at this stage manage small creative teams for companies like SC Johnson or local agencies.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$103,500 to $122,000
Average (per year)
$113,000
Senior directors lead larger initiatives and work closely with executive leadership in manufacturing or regional marketing firms.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$123,000+
Principal-level directors hold top creative roles at large employers or own design consultancies.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$35 - $48
per hour
Mid-level
$49 - $64
per hour
Senior
$64 - $85
per hour
Nationally, design directors average around $115,000, placing Wisconsin below the countrywide mean.