Head of Design Salary in Virginia, United States
In Northern Virginia, a Head of Design earns a median of $114,000 per year. Companies in the area hire. Salary levels differ locally.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$81,000 to $102,000
Average (per year)
$91,500
New professionals join small agencies or regional firms and earn salaries typical for the area.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$102,500 to $123,000
Average (per year)
$114,000
Experience with digital design and local government projects increases pay at this stage.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$123,500 to $144,500
Average (per year)
$134,000
Senior Heads of Design manage teams for regional healthcare or education institutions.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$145,000+
Principal-level leaders oversee large projects and drive design strategy for major employers in the county.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$41 - $55
per hour
Mid-level
$56 - $72
per hour
Senior
$73 - $90
per hour
Nationally Head of Design salaries hover around $105,000, making Virginia's pay roughly 8% higher.