Head of Design Salary in Toronto, Ontario
Toronto is Canada's financial center and a hub for technology, media, and design. High population and major employers drive demand for experienced heads of design. Cost of living is steep, which pushes salaries up for leadership roles.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
C$105,000 to C$128,000
Average (per year)
C$116,000
In Toronto, entry-level heads of design manage small teams at startups and boutique agencies.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
C$128,000 to C$158,000
Average (per year)
C$142,000
Mid-level heads of design oversee multiple projects at larger tech firms, banks, and media companies.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
C$158,000 to C$192,000
Average (per year)
C$175,000
Senior heads lead large creative teams for multinational employers and major Canadian brands.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
C$192,000+
Principal-level heads of design direct company-wide strategy in tech, finance, and media organizations.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
C$52 - C$68
per hour
Mid-level
C$68 - C$86
per hour
Senior
C$86 - C$102
per hour