Head of Design Salary in Maryland, United States

Design leaders in Baltimore's tech corridor may earn six‑figure salaries. A median of $121,500 marks the mid‑level range.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

$90,500 to $111,000

Average (per year)

$101,000

New heads of design in Kettering often work with federal contractors and local startups.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

$111,500 to $131,000

Average (per year)

$121,500

Design leaders work with firms supplying IT services to major government agencies.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

$132,000 to $151,000

Average (per year)

$141,250

Senior professionals often lead digital projects for defense and healthcare groups.

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

$151,500+

Veteran design heads work with established consultancies and national corporations in Prince George's County.

Hourly Rates

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

Junior

$46 - $61

per hour

Mid-level

$62 - $77

per hour

Senior

$78 - $100

per hour

Maryland's median exceeds the national average by roughly $15,000. The gap may be associated with federal spending and cost‑of‑living differences.