Head of Design Salary in Arlington County, Virginia

Arlington County sits just across the river from Washington, DC. Design salaries in Arlington are relatively high. Arlington is close to national headquarters and federal projects.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

$110,000 to $135,000

Average (per year)

$122,000

Entry-level Heads of Design in Arlington work for government contractors, tech consultancies, or startups.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

$135,000 to $170,000

Average (per year)

$153,000

Professionals at this level manage small teams for federal agencies or commercial tech firms.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

$170,000 to $210,000

Average (per year)

$190,000

Senior Heads of Design lead design strategy at established consultancies or SaaS companies.

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

$210,000+

Principal-level roles work at major defense contractors or fast-growing tech firms.

Hourly Rates

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

Junior

$55 - $75

per hour

Mid-level

$75 - $110

per hour

Senior

$110 - $160

per hour