Design Manager Salary in Kentucky, United States
The cost of living in Kentucky is discussed. Design managers earn a median of $74,000 annually.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$54,500 to $67,000
Average (per year)
$61,000
Entry-level design managers in Franklin County earn moderate salaries, reflecting the presence of government and manufacturing employers.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$67,000 to $82,000
Average (per year)
$74,000
Mid-level professionals receive higher pay, reflecting demand for project management and technical expertise.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$82,000 to $95,000
Average (per year)
$88,000
Senior managers earn higher salaries, with compensation varying across sectors such as governmental contracts and healthcare design projects.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$96,000+
Principal-level roles lead multi-disciplinary teams, and compensation reflects broad oversight and strategic input.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$28 - $35
per hour
Mid-level
$35 - $44
per hour
Senior
$45 - $54
per hour
Nationally, design manager pay averages around $95,000, so Kentucky's median sits below the U.S. This is a benchmark.