Design Manager Salary in North Carolina, United States
Design manager salaries are discussed for Raleigh-Durham. Cost of living is noted. Companies such as Red Hat and IBM work on software and hardware projects requiring design leadership.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$57,000 to $69,000
Average (per year)
$63,000
Graduates join small design firms or local agencies at this stage.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$70,000 to $86,000
Average (per year)
$78,000
With experience, designers move to regional companies or manufacturing businesses.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$86,000 to $100,000
Average (per year)
$93,000
Senior managers oversee larger projects.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$100,000+
Principal roles lead teams on contracts.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$29 - $37
per hour
Mid-level
$37 - $48
per hour
Senior
$48 - $60
per hour
Nationally, design managers average around $85,000, so North Carolina sits slightly below the overall benchmark while offering lower living costs.