▼18%
$96,650
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$71k
MEDIAN
$97k
90%
$167k
The average salary for a Design Manager is $96,650 in 2025
Base Salary
$71k - $167k
Bonus
$1k - $25k
Total Pay
$80k - $167k
Is Average Experienced Design Manager Salary in Chicago, Illinois your job title? Find out what you should be paid
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What is the Pay by Experience Level for Design Managers?
What Do Design Managers Do?
Find your market worth – how it works:
Common Health Benefits for a Design Manager
Medical
100%
Dental
89%
Vision
78%
Gender Breakdown for Design Managers
Female
57.1%
Male
42.9%
This data is based on 7 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
FAQs About Design Managers
What is the highest pay for Design Managers in Chicago?
Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Design Manager in Chicago is $167k / year
What is the lowest pay for Design Managers in Chicago?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Design Manager in Chicago is $71k / year
How can Design Managers increase their salary?
Increasing your pay as a Design Manager is possible in different ways. Change of employer: Consider a career move to a new employer that is willing to pay higher for your skills. Level of Education: Gaining advanced degrees may allow this role to increase their income potential and qualify for promotions. Managing Experience: If you are a Design Manager that oversees more junior Design Managers, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.