Head of Design Salary in Massachusetts, United States
Boston pays a median $127,000 for Head of Design. The figure reflects demand from local firms.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$98,000 to $118,000
Average (per year)
$107,000
Early-career Heads of Design are employed across multiple industries.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$119,000 to $136,000
Average (per year)
$127,000
Managers with several years of experience secure roles in midsize companies and public sector offices.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$137,000 to $158,000
Average (per year)
$148,000
Senior leaders drive design strategy for regional headquarters and larger employers.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$159,000+
Principals work in sectors such as biotech and finance.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$48 - $62
per hour
Mid-level
$63 - $82
per hour
Senior
$83 - $100
per hour
Nationally, the median sits near $115,000, so Massachusetts outpaces the average by roughly ten percent.