Graphic Designer Salary in Chicago, Illinois
Chicago includes advertising and technology industries. Salaries are influenced by high living costs. Designers work with a variety of clients.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$47,000 to $59,000
Average (per year)
$53,000
Recent graduates in Chicago advertising agencies or design studios earn salaries at the lower end of this range.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$60,000 to $73,000
Average (per year)
$66,000
Mid-career designers work at tech startups, large marketing firms, or in-house corporate teams.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$75,000 to $92,000
Average (per year)
$83,000
Senior designers work for companies in finance, healthcare, and e-commerce.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$95,000+
Leading creative teams or managing major client accounts pushes compensation above $95,000, especially at large firms.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$22 - $32
per hour
Mid-level
$33 - $48
per hour
Senior
$50 - $75
per hour