Graphic Designer Salary in Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Edinburgh offers a median mid‑level graphic designer salary of £29,500 a year. Housing costs are a factor to consider. Pay is influenced by employment from cultural institutions, tech startups, and design studios in the city.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
£22,000 to £26,000
Average (per year)
£24,000
Graduates in Edinburgh work in the tech sector and larger marketing agencies.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
£26,000 to £34,000
Average (per year)
£29,500
Mid-level designers secure roles at digital agencies, universities, and financial services firms.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
£34,000 to £42,000
Average (per year)
£37,000
Senior designers work on national campaigns or manage creative teams in large organizations.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
£42,000+
Principal designers in Edinburgh work in finance, tech, and cultural institutions.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
£13 - £17
per hour
Mid-level
£18 - £27
per hour
Senior
£28 - £38
per hour
The Edinburgh median sits above the UK average, which hovers near £27,000 for comparable experience. Higher rent in the city centre can affect net earnings.