The design industry in Pakistan has grown rapidly with the rise of Digital Marketing, e-commerce, and startups. Today, graphic designers are not just creative professionals but also essential contributors to business growth. Understanding the Salary of Graphic designer in Pakistan in 2025 is critical for both job seekers and employers. With strong demand in cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, salaries are competitive and increasingly influenced by skill sets, experience, and global outsourcing trends.
Average Salary of Graphic Designers in Pakistan
Quick Answer: In 2025, the average monthly salary of a graphic designer in Pakistan ranges between PKR 45,000 and PKR 120,000, depending on expertise.
Junior designers often start at PKR 35,000, while mid-level professionals with 3–5 years of experience can earn PKR 70,000–100,000. Senior designers, creative leads, and UI/UX specialists earn up to PKR 150,000 or more. These figures align with Pakistan’s position as a top freelancing hub where international clients pay higher rates than local firms.
Salary Trends Across Major Cities
Quick Answer: Salaries are highest in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad due to demand from IT firms and multinational companies.
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Karachi: PKR 50,000–140,000/month due to demand in advertising and corporate design
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Lahore: PKR 45,000–120,000/month, boosted by startups and digital marketing agencies
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Islamabad: PKR 55,000–130,000/month with government-backed IT projects and NGOs
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Smaller Cities (Faisalabad, Multan, Bahawalpur): PKR 30,000–70,000/month, with lower cost of living but growing opportunities via IT parks
Impact of Experience on Salaries
Quick Answer: More years of experience bring higher pay and managerial roles in creative industries.
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Entry-Level (0–2 years): PKR 35,000–55,000/month
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Mid-Level (3–5 years): PKR 70,000–100,000/month
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Senior (6–10 years): PKR 120,000–180,000/month
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Creative Directors/Leads: PKR 200,000+ in large companies
Pakistani designers with international certifications often earn higher than average, particularly in UI/UX roles.
Skills That Increase Graphic Designer Salaries
Quick Answer: Specialized digital skills like UI/UX, motion graphics, and 3D design push salaries higher.
Employers increasingly look for designers who combine creativity with tech expertise. Top skills in demand:
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Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign)
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UI/UX design for websites and mobile apps
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Motion graphics and video editing
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3D modeling and AR/VR integration
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Branding and digital marketing expertise
The Ignite National Technology Fund has launched programs to train designers in emerging technologies, giving them a competitive edge.
Role of Freelancing in Graphic Designer Income
Quick Answer: Freelancers often earn more than salaried designers, especially with international clients.
On platforms like Fiverr and Upwork, Pakistani freelancers charge $15–50/hour depending on skills. A freelancer with strong ratings can earn over PKR 300,000 per month. Many young designers now combine full-time jobs with freelancing to maximize income.
This hybrid approach has made Pakistan the 4th fastest-growing freelance market globally, according to Payoneer’s Gig Economy Index.
The Role of IT Parks in Career Growth
Quick Answer: IT parks provide structured support for designers through co-working spaces, training, and client connections.
One notable hub is Dhanote IT Park, which enables designers and freelancers to access modern facilities, networking events, and mentorship. Such spaces bridge the gap between education and professional markets, helping young designers grow their careers.
Regional and International Comparisons
Quick Answer: Salaries in the UAE and Gulf markets are significantly higher, but competition is tougher.
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UAE: Graphic designers earn AED 7,000–15,000 (PKR 525,000–1,125,000) monthly
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Saudi Arabia: SAR 6,000–12,000 (PKR 450,000–900,000) monthly
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Pakistan: Lower pay but rapid growth, especially with freelancing and IT parks
This shows why many Pakistani designers freelance for Gulf clients while working locally.
Challenges Graphic Designers Face in Pakistan
Quick Answer: Payment methods, skill gaps, and recognition are the biggest hurdles.
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Limited access to PayPal for freelancers
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Oversupply of entry-level designers
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Gaps in UI/UX and emerging design technology training
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Lack of structured mentorship outside major cities
Government efforts like DigiSkills and STZA are helping bridge these gaps with training programs across Pakistan.
FAQs
1. What is the average salary for graphic designers in 2025?
Between PKR 45,000 and PKR 120,000 per month depending on skills and location.
2. Do freelance designers earn more than full-time employees?
Yes. Many freelancers earn PKR 200,000–300,000+ monthly with international clients.
3. Which skills help increase salaries the most?
UI/UX, motion graphics, 3D design, and branding expertise.
4. Are salaries higher in Karachi and Lahore compared to small cities?
Yes. Major cities offer better pay due to IT firms and agencies, while small cities rely on IT parks for opportunities.
5. How do Pakistani salaries compare to the UAE?
UAE designers earn 5–8 times more, but freelancing allows Pakistanis to tap into global rates.
6. Can fresh graduates earn well in design?
Yes, but initial salaries are modest. With certifications and freelancing, fresh graduates can quickly scale earnings.
7. What role does government support play in salaries?
Training initiatives like DigiSkills and Ignite provide skills that directly impact employability and income.
Final Thought
From my perspective, the graphic design industry in Pakistan is at a turning point. With average salaries rising and freelancing opportunities expanding, 2025 offers unmatched potential for young designers. Regional programs, government-backed initiatives, and IT hubs are ensuring that even smaller cities benefit from digital growth. Platforms like Salary of Graphic designer in Pakistan give clarity to new professionals, while IT ecosystems like Dhanote IT Park empower local talent to scale globally. Having worked with regional design teams, I believe Pakistan’s design community is on its way to becoming a recognized creative powerhouse.
