Packaging Designers on Upwork cost $25–$45/hr.

Learn about common cost factors to budget your hiring on the world's work marketplace.
Packaging Designers average prices bell curve

$25 $45

Median hourly rates (USD)*

How much does it cost to hire a packaging designer?

Hiring a packaging designer is an important step for businesses that want to create visually appealing and functional product packaging. These professionals combine expertise in graphic design, industrial design, and Adobe Creative Suite tools like Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign to craft packaging that reflects a brand's identity and appeals to customers. Whether you're launching a new product or refreshing your current line, understanding the costs of hiring a packaging designer can help you make informed decisions.

The cost of hiring a packaging designer depends on factors such as years of experience, location, and the complexity of the project. In this article, we'll cover the average salary, regional variations, and typical hourly rates for packaging designer jobs. You'll also learn about key cost factors, example roles, and the qualifications required to find the right talent for your packaging needs.

Overview of packaging designer costs

The costs for hiring a packaging designer vary depending on whether you need a full-time employee, a freelance designer, or a project-based engagement. Full-time hires often work within larger companies to maintain a cohesive visual design across product lines, while freelance or project-based designers are ideal for short-term needs or specialized projects.

Costs can be higher in major markets like San Francisco, New York, or Los Angeles, where the cost of living drives up rates. Understanding these dynamics will help you allocate your budget efficiently when hiring a packaging designer.

Salary range

The packaging designer salary varies widely based on location, experience, and industry. Here's a detailed look at the salary range for this job title.

National averages

The average packaging designer salary in America ranges from $63,000 to $109,000 annually. Entry-level designers typically earn on the lower end, while experienced professionals with advanced skills in product design and project management can earn total compensation exceeding $105,000. 

Experience-based variations

The years of experience a designer brings significantly influence their earning potential:

  • Entry-level: Designers with 0-2 years of experience typically earn between $55,000 and $65,000, working on basic packaging projects or assisting senior designers.
  • Mid-level: Professionals with 4-6 years of experience earn around $65,000 to $98,000, often taking on more complex projects involving product design and branding.
  • Senior packaging designers: With 8-10 years of experience or more, salaries can exceed $105,000, especially for those leading large-scale projects or working in industries like health care or industrial design.

Hourly pay

For businesses needing flexibility, many packaging designers offer hourly rates. Here's what to expect:

  • Entry-level: $20-$35/hour
  • Intermediate: $35-$60/hour
  • Expert: $60-$100/hour

Hourly engagements are ideal for short-term projects, such as creating designs for a single product or refreshing an existing package design.

Cost factors for hiring a packaging designer

Several factors affect the cost of hiring a packaging designer. Here are the key considerations:

  • Experience. Designers with significant work experience and a portfolio of successful projects often charge higher rates due to their ability to deliver high-quality results.
  • Certifications and advanced degrees. A bachelor's degree in graphic design or industrial design is standard, while certifications in specific tools like Adobe Creative Suite or a master's degree in design can increase earning potential.
  • Location. Designers in high-cost areas like San Francisco, New York, or Los Angeles command higher salaries due to elevated costs and competitive markets.
  • Project scope and complexity. Costs increase for large-scale projects, such as creating designs for multiple product lines or handling intricate branding requirements.
  • Specialization. Designers specializing in industries like healthcare, industrial design, or luxury goods often charge more due to the niche expertise required.

Example roles

The field of packaging design offers various specialized roles to meet different business needs, with many opportunities overlapping with similar jobs in graphic design and product design. Packaging designers often work as part of larger creative teams or as independent specialists, depending on the project scope and organizational structure.

These roles are critical in industries ranging from health care to consumer goods, where innovative and functional packaging is essential for success. Whether you need a senior packaging designer to lead projects or a versatile designer to handle both branding and visual design, the variety of roles in this field ensures you'll find the expertise you need. Here are a few examples:

  • Senior packaging designer. This role involves leading large-scale projects, developing innovative solutions for complex packaging challenges, and overseeing the work of junior designers. Extensive experience and advanced project management skills are typically required for success in this position.
  • Product design specialist. These professionals collaborate closely with engineering and branding teams to design packaging that meets both functional requirements and the company’s visual identity. Many specialize in industrial design for consumer goods or high-tech products.
  • Graphic designer with a packaging focus. Combining visual design expertise with an understanding of product design, they create eye-catching and effective packaging. This role is especially suited for companies needing versatile designers capable of handling diverse tasks.

FAQs

Here are answers to common questions about hiring a packaging designer:

What is the average packaging designer salary?

The average pay range for a packaging designer in the U.S. ranges from $63,000 to $109,000 annually, with senior designers with 4-7 years' experience can earn upwards of $105,000. In addition to base salary, there may be additional compensation available. Hourly rates typically range from $25 to $100, depending on experience.

What qualifications are needed for this role?

Most packaging designer jobs require a level of education that includes a bachelor's degree in graphic design, industrial design, or a related field. Proficiency in tools like Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign) is essential, and certifications can boost a candidate's value.

What industries hire packaging designers?

Industries such as health care, consumer goods, tech, and industrial design frequently hire packaging designers. Roles often focus on creating functional, attractive packaging to enhance brand recognition and product appeal.

How does a packaging designer contribute to product success?

Packaging designers create solutions that protect the product, attract customers, and align with the brand's identity. Their work plays a critical role in ensuring a product's market success.

How can I find a skilled packaging designer?

You can find talented packaging designers on platforms like Upwork. Browse portfolios, review work experience, and post clear job descriptions to attract the right candidates for your project.

Hire a packaging designer on Upwork

Hiring a skilled packaging designer can elevate your brand and ensure your products stand out in a competitive market. On Upwork, you'll find experienced designers specializing in visual design, product design, and Adobe Creative Suite tools.

Get started by posting your project, reviewing proposals, and selecting the ideal candidate. With flexible hiring options and access to top talent, Upwork makes it easy to find the right packaging designer for your needs. Start your search today and bring your packaging ideas to life.

View less

Packaging Designer Hiring Resources

Explore talent to hire

4.8/5

Rating is 4.8 out of 5.

clients rate Packaging Designers based on 10K+ reviews

Hire Packaging Designers

Join the world’s work marketplace

Find Talent

Post a job to interview and hire great talent.

Hire Talent
Find Work

Find work you love with like-minded clients.

Find Work

Trusted by