Service Designer Salary in Cardiff, United Kingdom
Cardiff offers a median mid‑level salary of £35,600 for service designers. Employers create demand. The cost of living is lower than in London, which can increase purchasing power for households.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
£25,000 to £31,200
Average (per year)
£28,500
Graduates begin with salaries influenced by Cardiff's digital agencies and Welsh Government projects.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
£31,200 to £41,000
Average (per year)
£35,600
Designers at this stage often work for consultancies or national bodies in Cardiff.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
£41,000 to £51,500
Average (per year)
£46,200
Senior designers collaborate with NHS Wales or local government in the capital city.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
£51,500+
Principal roles are based in Wales's largest city and typically require extensive experience.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
£16 - £22
per hour
Mid-level
£22 - £32
per hour
Senior
£32 - £50
per hour
Compared with the UK average of £38,000, Cardiff sits slightly below. Lower housing costs offset the gap.