Whether you create your graphic design company or start your freelancing career, expect that you can earn a decent graphic designer salary. This is because graphic design is a highly sought-after skill in today’s digital age.
Graphic design is linked to many industries, which create thousands of jobs. Aside from working for graphic design firms, you can also build your agency or become a freelancer.
The choice depends on your personal goals, preferences, and the level of independence you desire. Building your firm gives you complete control over projects and team management.
On the other hand, freelancing offers flexibility in choosing clients and working hours. Ultimately, it is essential to consider the pros and cons of each option to make an informed decision that aligns with your career aspirations.
With the right skills and experience, you can attract clients willing to pay competitive salaries. Additionally, staying up-to-date with industry trends and continuously improving your skills can help you command higher rates and secure a stable income in this field.
Graphic Design Jobs Remote or Office?
If you can’t decide whether to search for graphic design jobs in a remote or office setting, here are some things to consider:
Remote graphic design jobs offer the flexibility to work from anywhere, allowing you to create your own schedule and save on commuting time and expenses.
On the other hand, office-based graphic design jobs provide:
- a structured work environment
- opportunities for collaboration
- networking with colleagues
- access to resources and equipment
If you want to enjoy the flexibility of freelancing, it’s time to search for “graphic design jobs near me” and look for companies that offer remote work. As a freelancer, you can take advantage of these things:
- freedom to choose your projects and clients
- ability to work from anywhere with an internet connection
- opportunity to set your rates and negotiate contracts
- potential for a higher income compared to a traditional office job
- chance to build a diverse portfolio by working on various projects for different clients
Common Factors that Affect the Graphic Design Salary
There are many freelance graphic designers across the globe. If you ask why they stay in the industry, one possible answer that you could get is the graphic design salary that they enjoy.
How much do graphic designers make? The answer depends on several factors, including the following:
Experience
Although most clients prefer experienced designers, they may still consider you if you show your expertise. This can be achieved by showcasing your skills through internships, personal projects, or collaborations with other designers.
Updating your portfolio with new and innovative designs can help attract potential clients and increase your chances of earning a higher salary.
Skillset
Designers proficient in a wide range of software and techniques may have an advantage over those with limited skills, leading to higher earning potential. As a graphic designer, you are expected to be familiar with the standard software used in design.
The more graphic design software you are an expert in, the more versatile and marketable you become. Proficiency in popular software such as Adobe Creative Suite, including Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, can open up more job opportunities.
Not only that, but it can also increase your chances of landing high-paying projects.
Location
Salaries can vary significantly based on the cost of living in different regions or countries. Designers in major cities often earn more than those in smaller towns since they have higher living expenses, including housing, transportation, and daily necessities.
Additionally, major cities usually offer more job opportunities and a more extensive client base. They allow designers to command higher salaries due to increased service demand.
This is true even in the freelancing world since clients are often willing to pay a premium for the expertise and creativity that designers from major cities can bring to their projects. Furthermore, designers in major cities have access to a broader network of industry professionals and potential collaborators.
The two tables above show the top-paying areas for graphic designers. The information was based on the Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2022 report of the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Industry
Graphic designers working in specialized industries can earn a higher income since their skills are in high demand. Besides, they often work on complex projects that require technical knowledge.
Additionally, these designers may have the opportunity to work with prestigious clients or companies within their industry, which can further enhance their earning potential. Some sectors that offer competitive graphic design salaries include technology, advertising, fashion, and entertainment.
In the technology industry, graphic designers must create visually appealing user interfaces for websites and mobile applications. In advertising, graphic designers play a crucial role in developing eye-catching advertisements and marketing materials.
Meanwhile, in the fashion industry, graphic designers create captivating visuals for clothing brands and fashion magazines. Lastly, in the entertainment industry, they contribute to creating visually stunning graphics for movies, TV shows, and video games.
These industries pay a higher salary because of the high demand for skilled graphic designers and the impact their work has on the success of a product or brand. Graphic designers in these industries often have the opportunity to work on high-profile projects and collaborate with other creative professionals, further enhancing their earning potential.
Graphic Designer Salaries for Freelance Graphic Artists
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the median annual wage for graphic designers in May 2022 was $57,990.
This figure represents the wage at which half of the occupation’s workers earned more than that amount and less.
The top industries for graphic designers include:
- specialized design services
- advertising
- public relations
- publishing industries
- printing, and related support activities
Their schedules can vary depending on workload and deadlines. Self-employed individuals may need to adjust their workday to meet clients in the evening or on weekends.
However, according to salary.com, freelance graphic design offers an average salary of $73,802, ranging from $64,914 to $83,651. The compensation varies based on each employee’s job, department, location, and individual skills and education.
Freelancers can outearn those working in an office setting because they can set their rates and take on multiple projects simultaneously. Additionally, freelancers can choose to work with clients from different industries, allowing them to tap into a broader range of opportunities and earn higher incomes.
Final Thoughts on Graphic Design Salary for Freelancers
The income of freelance graphic designers varies because it depends on several factors, such as their experience level, the complexity of the projects they work on, and the demand for their services in the market. Additionally, freelance graphic designers have the flexibility to set their rates and negotiate with clients, which can also impact their income.
To earn a competitive graphic design salary, freelance graphic designers may need to update their skills and stay up-to-date with industry trends continuously. They can also consider expanding their client base and networking within the design community to increase their opportunities for higher-paying projects.
