Hiring Graphic Designers in the UK. What Do They Really Cost?

Are you looking to hire graphic designers in the UK but unsure about the costs involved? Whether you’re a small business owner or part of a larger team, finding the right design solution for your budget can be challenging. 

So, should you hire an in-house designer, work with freelancers, or explore alternative options like design subscriptions? Let’s break down the costs of each to help you make an informed decision.

How Much Do Graphic Designers in the UK Cost?

1. In-House Designers

Hiring an in-house designer provides you with dedicated support, faster feedback loops, and someone fully immersed in your brand. However, the cost goes beyond just the salary. Here’s what you can expect:

• Base Salary: The average annual salary for graphic designers in the UK is £27,669, according to Indeed (April 2024).
• Monthly Breakdown:
  • Gross pay: £2,305.75
  • Employer’s National Insurance: £213.59
  • Pension contribution (3%): £69.17
  • Adobe Creative Cloud: £56.98
  • Adobe Stock (40 images): £59.99
  • Project Management Tools (e.g., Asana): £20.99
  • Email & Cloud Storage: £10.00

Total Annual Cost: £32,837.64 (£2,736.47 per month).

In-house designers come with additional considerations like recruitment time, onboarding, and providing office space and equipment. Their wages may also vary depending on experience, location, and industry demand.

2. Freelance Graphic Designers

Freelance designers are ideal for businesses needing flexibility or one-off projects like a logo or landing page. However, costs can vary widely:

• Rates: Freelancers typically charge between £25.39 per hour (£262 per day) to upwards of £118.46 per hour, depending on experience and project complexity.
• Factors Influencing Cost:
  • Portfolio quality
  • Availability and schedule
  • Location (e.g., London-based designers charge higher rates)

Freelancers’ schedules can sometimes be packed, making consistent day-to-day support more challenging. Also, revisions and additional work often incur extra fees.

3. Graphic Design Agencies

Agencies are the go-to option for comprehensive design solutions or large-scale projects like full brand overhauls. While they bring expertise and a team’s collective knowledge, they come at a premium:

• Costs: Agencies in the UK charge between £118 and £157 per hour, with rates depending on the agency’s reputation and the scope of work.
• Benefits: Access to a team of specialists, end-to-end project management, and polished results.
• Drawbacks: Higher fees and longer turnaround times for smaller projects.

4. Unlimited Graphic Design Subscriptions

Unlimited graphic design subscription services like Designkroo are becoming increasingly popular for businesses with ongoing design needs. These plans provide a balance between flexibility and affordability.

• Costs:
  • Plans start at £299 per month (£74.75 per week) for basic design needs.
  • Elite plans for complex projects cost up to £799 per month.
• Advantages:
  • Dedicated designers who become familiar with your brand.
  • No extra costs for equipment or software.
  • Scalability to adjust support as needed.

This option is ideal for businesses requiring consistent design support without the overhead of an in-house hire or the unpredictability of freelancers.

Which Option Is Right for You?

To choose the best design support for your business, ask yourself:

1. What type of design work do you need?
   • For one-off projects, freelancers or agencies may be sufficient.
   • For ongoing needs, consider in-house or subscription services.
2. What is your budget?
   • Factor in not just upfront costs but also hidden expenses like recruitment, software, and revisions.
3. How much support do you require?
   • Agencies and subscription services are better suited for high-volume or specialized tasks, while freelancers may suffice for smaller, less frequent jobs.

The cost of hiring graphic designers in the UK varies significantly depending on the option you choose. While in-house hires provide exclusivity and direct collaboration, they come with higher fixed costs. Freelancers and agencies offer flexibility but can be expensive for ongoing work. Unlimited graphic design services like Designkroo provide an affordable and scalable solution for businesses with consistent design needs.

Ready to find your perfect design partner? Explore your options and make a choice that aligns with your business goals and budget.