As of July 01, 2026, the average salary for a Packaging Graphics Designer I in the United States is $63,520 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $31.
However, a Packaging Graphics Designer I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Packaging Graphics Designer I's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Packaging Graphics Designer I's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Packaging Graphics Designer I | 0-2 years | $63,517 |
| Package Art Designer II | 2-4 years | $74,340 |
| Package Art Designer III | 4-7 years | $95,109 |
| Package Art Designer IV | 7+ years | $116,074 |
| Packaging Graphics Design Manager | 7+ years | $129,768 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Packaging Graphics Designer Is. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail | 2.42% |
| Container | 1.84% |
| Preventative Maintenance | 1.16% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Analysis
|
$86,387 |
36%
|
|
Oral Communication
|
$80,670 |
27%
|
|
Decision Making
|
$79,400 |
25%
|
|
Verbal Communication
|
$76,224 |
20%
|
|
Effective Communication
|
$74,318 |
17%
|
|
Equipment Operation
|
$73,683 |
16%
|
Packaging Graphics Designer I salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $71,047. While startup companies pay approximate $60,084.
| Company Size | Employees | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Startup | 1~50 | $60,084 |
| Growth Stage | 51~500 | $63,548 |
| Established | 501~5000 | $68,609 |
| Enterprise | 5000+ | $71,047 |
For Packaging Graphics Designer I roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 10% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Aerospace & Defense and Business Services sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 5% above the average. In contrast, Packaging Graphics Designer positions in Transportation or Software & Networking typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Packaging Graphics Designer I as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aerospace & Defense | $66,696 | $32.0 | 5% |
| Business Services | $66,696 | $32.0 | 5% |
| Construction | $66,696 | $32.0 | 5% |
| Energy & Utilities | $66,696 | $32.0 | 5% |
| Healthcare | $66,696 | $32.0 | 5% |
Understanding how a Packaging Graphics Designer I's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on July 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Packaging Graphics Designer I, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Design Services Specialist II | $70,000 | 10% |
| Package Art Designer II | $74,400 | 17% |
Salaries for a Packaging Graphics Designer I can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $57,992 in 2023 to around $57,323 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Packaging Graphics Designer I salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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|
| 2023 | $57,992 |
| 2024 | $57,777 |
| 2025 | $57,323 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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The Aerospace & Defense industry offers the highest average compensation for Packaging Graphics Designer I roles, with salaries approximately 5% above the market median.
Packaging Graphics Designers typically earn between $58,270 and $75,970 annually, with a median salary of $65,280. Hourly rates for packaging design can range from $100 to $149, while project costs for US-based agencies may vary from $1,000 to $50,000, depending on the complexity of the design.
To become a packaging designer, a background in graphic design is essential, along with knowledge of manufacturing and industrial design. Typically, an associate's or bachelor's degree in graphic design, industrial design, or a related field is required. The salary for packaging graphics designers ranges from $58,270 to $75,970, with a median salary of $65,280.
Graphic Packaging Supervisors typically earn between $58,270 and $75,970 annually, with a median salary of around $65,280. This range reflects the varying levels of experience and responsibilities within the role. The average salary may differ based on location and specific company practices.
The highest paid Packaging Graphics Designer can earn up to $75,970 annually. The salary range for this position typically starts at a minimum of $58,270, with a mid-level salary around $65,280. This reflects the varying levels of experience and expertise within the field.
Graphic Packaging International has an overall rating of 3.5 out of 5, based on over 1,025 anonymous employee reviews. With 60% of employees recommending the company and 59% expressing a positive outlook, it appears to be a decent workplace. Additionally, Packaging Graphics Designers can expect salaries ranging from $58,270 to $75,970, with a mid-range salary of $65,280.
Graphic Packaging designers earn between $58,270 and $75,970 annually, with a median salary of $65,280. This range reflects the varying levels of experience and expertise within the role, providing a competitive compensation structure in the industry.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
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