Design Manager Salary in Missouri, United States
Missouri's midwestern location offers a median salary of $71,250 for design managers. The figure reflects the state's lower cost of living and demand from several sectors.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$54,000 to $65,000
Average (per year)
$59,250
Entry-level managers assist with smaller projects for local contractors or municipal offices.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$65,000 to $77,500
Average (per year)
$71,250
Mid-level professionals coordinate design work for regional retail chains or healthcare facilities.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$77,500 to $91,500
Average (per year)
$84,250
Senior managers lead multi-phase projects and supervise teams within real estate or development firms.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$92,000+
Principal-level roles provide strategic design direction for county governments or large private employers.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$27 - $34
per hour
Mid-level
$35 - $44
per hour
Senior
$45 - $53
per hour
Nationally, design managers earn around $85,000, so Missouri sits below the average but offers cheaper housing. That gap affects disposable income for professionals.