Head of Design Salary in United States
Across the United States, heads of design earn $106,000. Demand is driven by multiple industries.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$78,000 to $95,000
Average (per year)
$87,000
Recent graduates and early‑career managers begin in tech‑adjacent roles at Auburn University or local startups.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$96,000 to $116,000
Average (per year)
$106,000
Designers can work in education, healthcare, or regional software firms.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$116,000 to $136,000
Average (per year)
$126,000
Senior leaders oversee multi‑disciplinary groups and large projects for university initiatives or tech employers.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$136,000+
Veteran design leaders can hold regional roles or direct design strategy for expanding companies.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$40 - $55
per hour
Mid-level
$56 - $72
per hour
Senior
$74 - $95
per hour
Market Overview
Silicon Valley, New York, and Chicago host major design teams. Hiring occurs in various regions.