Graphic Designer Salary
What is the standard salary for a graphic designer and senior graphic designer in Chicago? Both freelance (hourly) and salary.
For tech junior 110, senior 180+
Can you please clarify, sounds kinda high for a graphic designer, even in tech. Unless by graphic designer you meant a visual designer (ui/UX/animation)
This information is from my friends who do digital design at large tech companies (e.g., Apple).
I made $52k at a Chicago nonprofit. Likely could’ve made $60k elsewhere.
How many years of experience did you have? What was your title
I was 2 years out of college. Design team of one so my title could be whatever I wanted, really. On paper I was a Visual Designer.
I make $42,000 but that’s working for the government. $50 per hour on my freelance side. I think i can make somewhere in the $50k-$60 outside the government.
Graphic designer with no experience 30 -45k Graphic designer with experience 50 - 75k All depends on skill set, responsibility gained style and client’s overall approval finalize projects
I make 80K as a Sr. Brand Designer in Healthcare. My freelance rate is 70 per hour, depending on the project.
I always wanted to be transparent. Market is one thing, but demand is another. If all graphic designers raise their rate to $2000/hr. one day, there will be a total collapse of social media, and that programmer money will go to us. You need to be intelligent. You need to be street smart when you do design. And you always can add value to what you do outside of what you do - edit, etc. I've been seeing 50k here and what not. If you take that 10 years ago, you mind as well just work at a fast food restaurant. Aim for $50k as an intern. Aim for $70k as a new hire. Aim for $120k when you turn senior with yoe 6 Aim for $200k when you turn senior GD. Aim for more. You honest think these programmers can create art? You have to ask yourself that too. Design isn't about how to use Adobe CS. It's about solving problems. Good luck with you. Illinois has cheaper housing, but they still have tons of jobs that's pays well in the city.
At the midsize design firm, you’ll get 45-55k and 55-85k (designer and Sr designer), traditional large ad agency might pay you up to 100k on the senior side.