Head of Design Salary in New Mexico, United States
In Albuquerque, the median salary for design leadership is $92,500. Santa Fe has cultural firms.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$70,750 to $86,500
Average (per year)
$78,500
Entry-level roles are available at local startups and public sector agencies.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$86,500 to $99,000
Average (per year)
$92,500
Mid-level professionals work at tech firms, government labs, and educational institutions.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$99,000 to $112,500
Average (per year)
$105,750
Senior designers lead teams for regional employers.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$112,500+
Principal leaders manage design projects for organizations and government contractors.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$36 - $49
per hour
Mid-level
$49 - $64
per hour
Senior
$64 - $80
per hour
New Mexico's median sits roughly $10,000 below the U.S. It is the average salary for heads of design. That gap reflects the state's lower housing costs.