Head of Design Salary in Ohio, United States
In Ohio, a Head of Design earns a median of $100,500 per year. Manufacturing firms, tech startups, and university labs drive that demand.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$71,500 to $91,000
Average (per year)
$80,500
Recent graduates start in local agencies or regional manufacturing firms.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$92,000 to $110,000
Average (per year)
$100,500
Professionals with several years managing projects in Butler County work in tech‑adjacent businesses or healthcare design.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$110,500 to $128,000
Average (per year)
$118,000
Design leaders with experience across multiple sectors work in this area.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$128,000+
Principal Heads of Design lead large teams or work for regional headquarters.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$40 - $54
per hour
Mid-level
$55 - $70
per hour
Senior
$70 - $88
per hour
Ohio's median sits about $15,000 above the national average for senior design leaders. The edge is reflected in the state's salary figures.