Graphic Designing industry in India is taking rapid strides. Creative individuals who can visually communicate their ideas are best suited for this profession. The salary of Graphic Designers is attractive which encourages individuals to take up the course. There are several factors that determine the salary of professionals such as skill level, experience, specialisation, industry and the company they work for. The average salary of Graphic Designers is from 3 LPA to 15 LPA depending on their experience level and skills.
To be precise, Graphic Designing is a profession wherein individuals focus on creating innovative and visually authentic content on the web. Graphic Designers focus on visual elements that can help alleviate the user experience and therefore optimize the products and services of a business. Thus we find that Graphic Designing is not only about creating visually attractive content but also is a powerful tool to convey ideas, enhance brand entities and reach the target audience. However, the role of a Graphic Designer is not limited to this as it also includes various sub-branches such as Multimedia Designer and UI/UX Designer as well. Therefore, for anyone who pursues a course in Graphic Designing, there are plenty of career opportunities available. In this article, we will discuss the salary prospects of a Graphic Designer.
The average salary of Graphic Designers in India in the public and private sectors of various reputable organisations is between 3 LPA and 15 LPA. The average entry-level salary varies from somewhere between 2.5 LPA and 6 LPA depending upon the skills of the candidates displayed on the portfolio. Some skills that help in getting higher packages include proficiency in design software, creative knowledge, aesthetic sensibility, communication and collaboration. They must have skills to manage time and attention to detail that would make them get a good headstart in Graphic Designing.
However, the number mentioned is not fixed as it may vary depending on a lot of factors such as the salary of a Graphic Designer may rise because of a candidate’s ability, techniques and work experience. The state-wise salary differences are also prominent.
The table below shows the Graphic Designing salary distribution in India:
Graphic Designer Salary in India | Salary Amount (in INR) |
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Highest Salary | 14,00,000 |
Lowest Salary | 2,00,000 |
Average Salary | 8,40,000 |
Graphic Designers are in high demand in a variety of fields, including Film, Photography, Animation, Multimedia, etc. The following table shows the average salary for Graphic Designers job profiles in India:
Designation | Average Graphic Designing Salary |
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Junior Graphic Designer | 5.5 Lakh |
Senior Graphic Designer | 16.4 Lakh |
Associate Graphic Designer | 7.7 Lakh |
The salary of a Graphic Designer in India depends on the qualification of the individual. It is a very common notion that the ones with certificates and diploma degrees will not earn as much as those with a bachelors or master’s degree. The degrees and qualifications add up to the graphic designer's salary. Companies generally prefer students with an advanced diploma or undergraduate or postgraduate degrees. It is easier to get jobs for those who have higher qualifications. Here is the salary of a Graphic Designer in India qualification wise:
Graphic Designer Qualification | Average Salary Per Annum (in INR) |
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Certificate | 1,50,000-2,50,000 |
Diploma | 2,00,000-5,00,000 |
Bachelors | 3,00,000-5,00,000 |
Masters | 5,00,000-7,00,000 |
Research | 6,00,000-8,00,000 |
Jobs available for Graphic Designers vary depending on the candidate's chosen area of specialisation. They can specialise in web design, UX/UI design, branding, illustration and others.
Web Designers focus on creating visually appealing and user-friendly websites while UI/UX Designers specialise in creativity and intuitive user experiences. The average salary of a Web Designer is between 3.5 LPA and 7 LPA and UI/UX Designers can earn anywhere between 4.5 LPA and 9 LPA. The salary is based on the designer’s skill levels, quality of portfolio and experience
The top profiles in India according to specialization and average salary are discussed below.
Job Profile | Graphic Designing Annual Salary (in INR) |
---|---|
Senior Graphic Designer | 11,50,000 |
Marketing Specialist | 8,40,000 |
Freelance Graphic Designer | 10,60,000 |
Motion Graphic Designer | 4,00,000 |
Creative Graphic Designer | 6,60,000 |
Web Designer | 5,60,000 |
Graphic Artist/Designer | 6,60,000 |
UX/UI Designer | 9,50,000 |
Digital Designer | 10,00,000 |
Multimedia Designer | 9,70,000 |
Freelance Graphic Designer | 7,70,000 |
Photo Editor | 5,90,000 |
Video and Film Editor | 6,00,000 |
Art Designer | 4,80,000 |
Creative Designer | 9,60,000 |
Graphic Design Instructor | 7,00,000 |
A Graphic Designer can pursue career opportunities in both the Government as well as the Private sector. However, in terms of diverse profiles and job roles, more opportunities are available in the Private Sector for Graphic Designers.
In the Government sector, Graphic Designers can work with various entities such as Non-Governmental Organisations, Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) and other relevant semi-government organisations. The government gives contracts and projects for design purposes. There are several freelancing opportunities for government bodies and public sector industries. Examples of such institutions/organizations include the National Institute of Smart Government, Centre for Strategy and Leadership, National Institute of Urban Affairs, Digital India Corporation, Indian Institute of Technology, etc.
The private sector has several opportunities for different career paths such as branding, advertising, web, UI/UX design, print and editorial design, motion, graphics and animation. They require people who have a creative mindset and the job is rewarding and suitable.
To get suitable job opportunities, it is important to build a strong portfolio of work that showcases skills and experiences to secure lucrative profiles. Networking, staying up to date with the happenings and joining design communities help Graphic Designers get good placements.
With the trend of digital revolution increasing around the world, various businesses have increased their focus and presence on the internet. As the internet is a highly complex and competitive domain therefore to stand out expert opinions are required and here comes the role of Graphic Designers. They help in building a company’s brand name, online presence, customers' trust and faith, therefore making Graphic Designers important in the success of a business.
Some of the top recruiters in India and abroad for Graphic Designers are mentioned below:
Company/Organization | Description |
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Pentagram | Pentagram was founded in 1975 and is one of the oldest Graphic Designing companies in the world. They directly deal with the clients with a focus on advertising, branding, packaging, and other relevant services. |
Meta Design | It is a Graphic Designing company based out of Switzerland and is famous for churning out new and innovative designs. The firm focuses on logo design, packaging design as core components of overall brand development. |
ManyPixels | They have graphic designers who work on a day to day basis and provide high quality work. |
Landor | The company has worked with famous brands such as Kellog’s and has presence in more than 20 countries across the globe. |
Huge | The company focuses on areas such as design, marketing and technology and has a huge presence across the globe. |
Go Media | The company is based out of USA and was established in 2003. The Graphic Designing brand is famous for its branding, inspirational design, and creative digital projects. |
Saffron | Saffron is a Graphic Designing company based out of the United States. They have an excellent customer base and focus on graphic designing tools and outstanding designs. Their working approach includes an out-of-the-box, innovative approach, and help their clients reach new heights. |
Wolff Olins | This Graphic Designing Firm has worked with some of the top brands across the globe. Wolff Olins focus on aspects such as brand strategy, brand makeover, and in-depth improvements in brand perceptions. This helps in building a brands connect with people, and the planet.
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Pixel Production Inc | This Graphic Designing company is based out of USA and provides a diverse range of Graphic Design Services such as regular print and marketing materials. The company emphasizes small to mid-sized firms that are already established but are also looking to take the next step in their growth. |
Sociallyin | Based out of the UK, Sociallyin is a social media advertising business company. Their Graphic Design studio provides creative and innovative content to its business clients. |
Buttercup Design Studio | The company focuses on creative and innovative ideas that also involves the use of visuals and not merely in making the designs attractive. The company is regarded as one of the best in Graphic Designing because of its best marketing efforts and strategy undertaken.
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Mind Digital | The company employs innovative Graphic Designer professionals that focuses more technical skills. The company works newer ideas and values behind the business, that can engage the audiences, and creates something that wins hearts.
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9Dzine | 9Dzine is a company that has established itself with the customers with the help of designs that are remembered. The company has created a variety of logos and corporate designs. |
The cost of living heavily impacts the salary of Graphic Designers. The cities where the expenditure on rent, food, necessities and transport is high, the salary is on the higher side. Therefore, it is often seen that the salary for Graphic Designers in Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Delhi is higher.
Yes, there are opportunities for career growth and an increase in salary in Graphic Designing. With age, the skills and experience of the professionals increase and then they get promotions and increments. They can also switch to other companies and can get a higher raise. It is essential to present a portfolio of work for career growth.
Yes, experience matters in the case of a graphic designer's salary. Junior or entry-level designers get a low starting salary while experienced and senior designers can bargain for higher salaries. The freshers’ salary also depends upon the degree the designers have.
Yes, individuals can bargain during interviews for Graphic Designers. Every professional must know their self-worth and the price of their skills. They can negotiate with HR and reach an agreement related to the salary. They must understand the differences between CTC and in-hand salary.
Yes, the size of the company affects the salary of a graphic designer. Big companies generally have bigger client bases and high budgets whereas small companies get projects that generally have budget constraints. Therefore graphic designers working with big companies are paid higher salaries.
Yes, it is possible to earn through freelancing as a Graphic Designer besides a normal job. They can take up various freelancing projects that they can do in their free time. This increases their overall earning potential.
Yes, it is important to have a degree to get a good Graphic Designing salary. One must remember that though it increases earning potential, it is not the only requirement for getting a good salary. Practical skills, experience and a strong design portfolio increase the chances of a decent salary.
Yes, different graphic designing industries have different salaries. It depends on the demand and requirements of that particular industry. Media, advertising and e-commerce sectors provide the better-earning potential to candidates as compared to other small-scale industries.
It is difficult to compare the salary of freelance graphic designers. Their income is not stable and can vary on a month-on-month basis based on the quantity and quality of projects. On the other hand, those working in the companies get fixed salaries and incentives depending on their performance. The freelance designers, however, can decide their rates depending on the type and complexity of projects.
Yes, companies give additional perks and benefits to Graphic Designers such as health insurance, flexible work hours, paid leaves, incentives, software expenses and allowances for professional certifications and skill enhancements.
Yes, graphic designers generally earn more in metro cities. Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru earn higher salaries compared to smaller cities due high demand for graphic design services and thriving industry. Also, the cost of living is high in these cities which requires higher pay to meet everyday costs.
Some popular skills required to become a graphic designer include proficiency in software for graphic design software such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign. Additionally, creative instinct, dedication, punctuality, brainstorming capacity and time management are some other highly valued skills.
In India some of the best cities to work as a Graphic Designer include the ones with the well developed infrastructure such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Pune, Hyderabad, etc. Outside India some of the best cities to work asa a Graphic Designer include Berlin, London, Boston, California, Seattle, Toronto, etc.
The salary of Graphic Designers increases based on experience. Junior or entry-level graphic designers earn lower salaries, while mid-level and senior designers with several years of experience get higher salaries based on their skills, portfolio of work and expertise in the domain.
The highest salary for a graphic designer in India is between 8 LPA and 10 LPA. It also varies significantly depending on factors such as the experience and expertise of the graphic designer and the company or industry where they are working. Experienced graphic designers in top-tier agencies or multinational companies can earn salaries above 10 LPA.
The starting salary of a graphic designer in India can range from 2 LPA to 4 LPA per year. On average, entry-level graphic designers can expect a starting salary based on factors like location, company size and industry. Creating a good portfolio helps to get a good starting salary.
Some of the top paying companies that hire Graphic Designers are several private companies, multinational companies and advertising companies. Ogilvy, CNN, Microsoft, Cognizant, Accenture, 99 Designs and Canva. There are opportunities in both the print and online worlds.
This is a highly subjective question and depends on the concerned individual. Graphic Designing can be a good career option for persons who have a creative and innovative mindset along with the required technical skills.