Head of Design Salary in Porto, Portugal

Porto rewards Head of Design talent with a €34,000 median salary. Local firms range from design studios to larger tech firms, creating a competitive pay band.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

€24,700 to €30,000

Average (per year)

€27,250

Early‑career professionals join local manufacturers or small agencies, earning salaries lower than in Porto city centre.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

€30,000 to €38,000

Average (per year)

€34,000

Mid‑level designers manage small design teams in companies linked to the jewelry and furniture sectors.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

€38,000 to €45,000

Average (per year)

€41,000

Senior Heads of Design oversee design direction for mid‑sized firms or regional tech offices.

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

€45,000+

Principal designers focus on innovation and cross‑company leadership.

Hourly Rates

For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.

Junior

€16 - €24

per hour

Mid-level

€24 - €34

per hour

Senior

€34 - €46

per hour

Nationally, Head of Design roles average around €38,000, so Porto sits slightly below the Portuguese mean.