Designers earn a median $53,080: Pay ranges from $33,970 to $102,620
The median salary for Designers in the U.S. is $53,080 per year, according to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics data. The mean wage is $63,040, or about $26 an hour. Most designers earn between $33,970 (10th percentile) and $102,620 (90th percentile). That range reflects the diversity of roles across industries, from graphic design to UX design to industrial design. Nationwide, 550,190 people work as designers.
How much Designers earn
The median annual wage for designers is $53,080. The middle 50% earn roughly $42,000 to $68,000, though the official BLS range is $33,970 to $102,620. At $63,040, the mean (average) is pulled up by higher-paid specialties and more experienced designers in tech and management roles.
Entry-level designer jobs often start near $34,000, especially in small agencies or non-tech fields. Senior designers at major firms or in specialized areas like UX or product design can clear $100,000. The $26-per-hour mean is a useful benchmark for freelance or contract work calculations.
- 10th percentile: $33,970
- Median: $53,080
- 90th percentile: $102,620
- Mean hourly: $26
Pay by state
BLS data for the highest- and lowest-paying states by designer salary is not available in the current release. However, based on general cost-of-living and tech industry concentration, designers in California, New York, and Washington often earn above the national median. States like Mississippi, Arkansas, and West Virginia typically pay below the median. For exact state figures, consult the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics.
How to become Designer
Most designer jobs require a bachelor's degree in graphic design, fine arts, or a related field. Some roles, especially in UX/UI, accept degrees in computer science or psychology combined with a portfolio. Associate degrees or certificate programs can qualify for entry-level positions, but advancement often requires a bachelor's.
A strong portfolio is essential for landing work. Internships during or after school provide real projects to showcase. Licensure is not required, but certifications in specific software (Adobe, Figma, Sketch) or UX methodologies can help stand out. Many designers start as junior graphic designers or production artists and move into senior or specialized roles.
- Earn a bachelor's degree (graphic design, fine arts, or related)
- Build a portfolio of work
- Complete an internship or entry-level job
- Consider certifications in design software or UX
- Advance through experience and specialization
Job outlook
The BLS does not provide a specific projected growth rate for designers from 2024–2034. However, employment is influenced by demand for digital products, advertising, and user experience. Competition is strong for entry-level roles; job seekers with a strong portfolio and skills in web design, motion graphics, or UX will have the best prospects.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average salary for a Designer?
The mean annual wage is $63,040, and the median is $53,080. Hourly, the mean is about $26.
Is designer a good career?
It depends. Median pay is above the national average for all occupations, and top earners exceed $100K. But competition is high, and many entry-level roles pay near $34,000.
How much do entry-level designers make?
The 10th percentile—roughly entry-level—is $33,970. Pay rises quickly with experience and portfolio quality.
What education do I need to be a designer?
A bachelor's degree is typical, but an associate degree or certificate plus a strong portfolio can work for some roles.
What is the job growth for designers?
BLS does not project specific growth for this occupation. Demand is steady but competitive, especially for digital design skills.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Designers data.