Product Designer Salary in Wake County
Wake County is part of North Carolina's Research Triangle. Salaries are competitive in the Southeast US. Counties are driven by software, biotech, and educational institutions. Demand for digital products influences pay levels.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$63,000 to $76,000
Average (per year)
$69,500
Graduates join startups, software companies, or Research Triangle Park employers.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$77,000 to $96,000
Average (per year)
$86,500
Mid-level designers move between tech, healthcare, and higher-education product teams.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$97,000 to $120,000
Average (per year)
$108,500
Senior staff lead UX or product teams in software or SaaS firms.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$121,000+
Principal designers oversee design strategy for major employers or lead consulting practices.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$32 - $42
per hour
Mid-level
$43 - $60
per hour
Senior
$61 - $80
per hour