Head of Design Salary in City of Southampton, United Kingdom

Southampton has a port economy. Design leaders here have a median salary of £59,250.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

£43,000 to £52,500

Average (per year)

£47,750

Entry-level Heads of Design here advance from senior roles in local agencies or regional corporate offices.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

£53,250 to £65,250

Average (per year)

£59,250

Mid-level pay reflects local business activity.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

£66,250 to £81,500

Average (per year)

£73,875

Senior professionals split time between Eastleigh and Southampton, leading teams at tech or logistics firms.

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

£83,000+

Principal or Lead Heads of Design have senior responsibilities.

Hourly Rates

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

Junior

£33 - £45

per hour

Mid-level

£46 - £60

per hour

Senior

£62 - £88

per hour

Nationally, head of design roles average around £65,000, so Southampton sits slightly below the UK mean while still offering strong sector variety.