Key Highlights
Why Consider Studying and Working as a Graphic Designer Abroad?
• Exposure to diverse design styles and cultural influences
• Access to world-class design education and cutting-edge technologies
• Expanded global professional network and job opportunities
• Enhanced language skills and cross-cultural communication abilities
• Personal growth through increased independence and adaptability
• Portfolio diversification with international projects and perspectives
Are you in search of the best countries for graphic designers? Art and Creativity have no boundaries. Then why consider the boundaries of countries? There are many openings for graphic designers in many countries. You can work as a designer and bring your designs to life.
The need for a graphic designer is vital. They are needed in marketing, design, and all institutions. The demand for graphic designers is growing rapidly. Are you looking for a job as a graphic designer abroad? Do you not know the best countries for graphic designers? Then, you are at the right place. Let’s talk about the best countries. In them, working as a graphic designer is like a dream.
Top 8 Countries For Graphic Designers in 2024
1. United Kingdom
2. Canada
3. United States
4. Australia
5. Germany
6. Italy
7. Japan
8. Spain
Best Countries For Graphic Designers
Do you want to work with full freedom using your ideas and creativity? What's the best job for that? A Graphic Designer. If you also want to practice your endless creativity at work as a graphic designer, start looking at jobs for graphic designers abroad.
Let's explore some of the best countries for graphic designer:
1. The United Kingdom
- Average Salary: £29,237 per year
- Job Market Outlook: Strong, especially in London, Manchester, and Edinburgh
- Notable Agencies: Pentagram, Wolff Olins, Design Bridge
- Top Universities: Royal College of Art, University of the Arts London, Glasgow School of Art
- Visa Requirements: Tier 2 (General) visa for non-EU nationals
- Industry Focus: Branding, digital design, publishing
The UK has a thriving creative industry, with London being a global hub for graphic design. The country offers a good balance of traditional and digital design opportunities.
If the subject design comes, then how is it possible that the name of London doesn’t pop up? The UK is considered to be a junction for Graphic Designers. The leading universities for graphic designers in the UK are the reasons the country flourishes in design. Anyone looking to relocate abroad as a graphic designer can always think of immigrating to the UK.
The country is fully committed to producing exceptional designers. They come from the University of Arts London to the University of Brighton. The UK also offers good packages for graphic designers. The average salary the UK offers is around £30,000.
So, if you are looking for the best countries for graphic designers, the UK can be on your priority list.
2. Canada
- Average Salary: CAD 47,520 per year
- Job Market Outlook: Positive, with expected growth in major cities
- Notable Agencies: Bruce Mau Design, Sid Lee, Cossette
- Top Universities: Emily Carr University of Art & Design, OCAD University, Concordia University
- Visa Requirements: Work permit and Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)
- Industry Focus: Digital media, advertising, user experience design
Canada’s market is booming rapidly. With the continuous growth of new ventures in the country, the demand for marketing and advertising has also increased. Graphic design plays an important role in the marketing and advertising industry. Practices such as the creative visual representation of an idea are key roles of a graphic designer.
Canada immigration is the most attractive destination for Indians seeking a job in any sector. The country offers excellent opportunities and especially freedom to work as a graphic designer. People can work in a variety of fields depending on their personal choices. This is the best part of being a graphic designer; it gives you a free hand to choose your work area. There are various reasons why Canada comes to the list of best countries for graphic designers.
3. The United States
- Average Salary: $65,785 per year
- Job Market Outlook: Steady growth, especially in tech hubs
- Notable Agencies: Pentagram, IDEO, Landor
- Top Universities: Rhode Island School of Design, Parsons School of Design, Yale University
- Visa Requirements: H-1B visa for foreign workers
- Industry Focus: Tech industry, branding, motion graphics
The United Nations is considered one of the best destinations for graphic designers. The country offers a high salary and a creative environment in which to work. The country also has some top universities for graphic designers, helping students become future minds in the industry. Thus, US immigration is the preferred choice for graphic designers.
Due to the country’s high demand for graphic designers and the high salary, the United States can be considered to be one of the best countries for graphic designers. The country has diverse opportunities in this domain. The average package a country offers is around $60,000.
4. Australia
- Average Salary: AUD 71,722 per year
- Job Market Outlook: Growing demand, particularly in major cities
- Notable Agencies: Frost*collective, Re, Interbrand
- Top Universities: RMIT University, University of Technology Sydney, Swinburne University of Technology
- Visa Requirements: Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa
- Industry Focus: Branding, digital design, packaging
Australia has a wide range of opportunities for graphic designers. You can be an editor, UI designer, or teacher in this domain. Yes, the country offers jobs not only in business and corporations but also as a teacher in Universities.
Australia offers an average salary of $71,434. The country also focuses on the development and growth of designers by offering them innovative projects. It provides them with the ground to explore and experiment, and hence Australian immigration is known among graphic designers.
5. Germany
- Average Salary: €40,000 per year
- Job Market Outlook: Robust, especially in Berlin and Munich
- Notable Agencies: MetaDesign, Strichpunkt, Edenspiekermann
- Top Universities: Berlin University of the Arts, Bauhaus University Weimar, University of Applied Sciences Potsdam
- Visa Requirements: Work visa for non-EU nationals
- Industry Focus: Industrial design, user interface design, typography
Germany is known for its excellent technology and architectural design. And this field also demands someone who can visually represent and communicate their designs to the world. The number of openings has rapidly increased due to the demand in this domain.
The work culture and disciplined atmosphere are the unique factors of Germany. The respect for art and culture Germany shows makes it one of the best countries for graphic designers. The annual average salary Germany offers is AUR 44,000.
If you wish to work abroad as a graphic designer, Germany immigration is a go-to option for you.
Read More: Freshers Job in Australia for Indian- Latest Guide 2024
6. Italy
- Average Salary: €27,000 per year
- Job Market Outlook: Competitive, with opportunities in fashion and luxury goods
- Notable Agencies: Pentagram Milan, Leftloft, Armando Testa
- Top Universities: Politecnico di Milano, Istituto Europeo di Design, NABA
- Visa Requirements: Work visa for non-EU nationals
- Industry Focus: Fashion, luxury brands, editorial design
Italy is the land of art with a rich artistic history. The country flourishes in the field of design. This country's demand for graphic designers is high because of its appreciative nature towards art. It is truly a dreamland for designers.
With a productive environment, the country offers an annual average salary of €22,182. More than the salary package and conducive environment, the country is best for career growth and self-development as a graphic designer.
7. Japan
- Average Salary: ¥3,500,000 per year
- Job Market Outlook: Stable, with opportunities in major cities
- Notable Agencies: Nendo, Dentsu, Hakuhodo
- Top Universities: Musashino Art University, Tama Art University, Tokyo University of the Arts
- Visa Requirements: Work visa sponsored by an employer
- Industry Focus: Packaging design, user interface design, advertising
Japan is always enthusiastic about design, especially product and graphic design. The country always welcomes graphic designers from across the country making Japanese immigration quite popular among them. If you are into graphics and want to work in an excellent work environment, Japan is the one for you.
You will get a variety of graphics-related jobs in the country. Japan offers high salary packages with added immunities. If you enjoy the culture of Japan, The answer to your question of the best countries for graphic designers can surely be Japan if you are in love with the culture of Japan
8. Spain
- Average Salary: €23,000 per year
- Job Market Outlook: Improving, with opportunities in major cities
- Notable Agencies: Mucho, Folch, Vasava
- Top Universities: ELISAVA Barcelona School of Design and Engineering, IED Madrid, BAU Design College of Barcelona
- Visa Requirements: Work visa for non-EU nationals
- Industry Focus: Branding, editorial design, web design
Spain is the platform where you, as a visual communicator, can express your graphic how you want. Spain has various renowned institutions where you can learn graphic design; afterwards, you can directly practice as a graphic designer in the country.
The best part is the working culture there. You will always be free to exercise your creativity at your best without interference. So, choosing Spain can be the best option to work as a graphic designer.
Read More: How to Write Letter of Motivation for Germany in 2024?
15 Best Cities for Graphic Designers in the World in 2024
We have researched and analyzed each of the 15 Best Cities for Graphic Designers in the World, synthesizing real data from some of the most reputable sources globally, such as government websites and professional reports from the respective industry, and then corroborating with the latest job market studies. So, as a result of the findings above, the cities listed below are the ones that should be prioritized by graphic designers locally and internationally as they have the highest job-opening rates, top income, and a massive concentration of manpower in the fields mentioned here. The 15 Best Cities for Graphic Designers in the World are:
1. New York City, USA
New York City has always been the most promising destination for graphic designers. NYC provides a vibrant, creative labor market and numerous options that cater to the needs of the countless clients looking for quality services. NYC is also the only place where the most important industries in the world are situated. Media, advertising, and design firms, as well as startups- can be found here. This city provides a rich environment full of artistic life and iconic places in which designers' imaginations can be grounded and find inspiration.
- Total Graphic Designer jobs: 17,460
- Average annual salary: $64,840
- Lowest 10 percent earn: $39,560
- Highest 10 percent earn: $102,230
- Location quotient: 1.85
2. London, UK
London is the world's leading design and creativity location for graphic designers. The city has robust artistic platforms, where various exhibitions, museums, and galleries encourage the futuristic edge of design. With numerous job opportunities and higher-than-average salaries, London is a sought-after city for graphic designers to develop their profession.
- Total Graphic Designer jobs: 23,000
- Average annual salary: £36,000 ($49,500)
- Lowest 10 percent earn: £22,000 ($30,250)
- Highest 10 percent earn: £60,000 ($82,500)
- Location quotient: 2.1
3. San Francisco, USA
The area of San Francisco is characterized by some of the most innovative and revolutionary companies in the world, which is the main reason it serves as an attractive site for graphic designers. The strong technology basis of the city, along with its vibrant arts scene, gives infinite possibilities for expanding and creative thinking. Due to the numerous job openings and competitive salary conditions, San Francisco is an attractive location for graphic designers.
- Total Graphic Designer jobs: 5,180
- Average annual salary: $77,430
- Lowest 10 percent earn: $45,730
- Highest 10 percent earn: $119,720
- Location quotient: 1.76
4. Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo is a city that is a perfect mix of contemporary and traditional design, which gives graphic designers an imaginative and motivating environment. The city's busy alleys, vivid markets, and deep-rooted culture are the inspiration for the creative minds that never run out. A large number of experienced graphic designers, as well as high pay in the field, make Tokyo an attractive place for designers.
- Total Graphic Designer jobs: 28,000
- Average annual salary: ¥4,200,000 ($38,500)
- Lowest 10 percent earn: ¥2,500,000 ($22,900)
- Highest 10 percent earn: ¥7,000,000 ($64,200)
- Location quotient: 1.65
5. Berlin, Germany
Berlin is now the major center for creators in Europe and draws graphic designers who are very skilled from all corners of the world. The city is famous for its colorful and lively street art scene and its ability to accommodate the design of different types. A larger number of startups, agencies, and design studios are being formed in Berlin. Thus, the chances of graphic designers demonstrating their skills are on the rise.
- Total Graphic Designer jobs: 8,500
- Average annual salary: €42,000 ($49,700)
- The lowest 10 percent earn: €28,000 ($33,100)
- Highest 10 percent earn: €65,000 ($76,900)
- Location quotient: 1.9
6. Los Angeles, USA
Los Angeles is a place where creativity sparks, and it is a growing place in the entertainment and media industries. The abundant culture of the city and the spectacular landscapes that it offers create an inspiring environment for graphic designers. Los Angeles plays a big role in most film, TV, and advertisement production and facilitates many jobs in design agencies, with its executive and design departments being able to pay good salaries and having good possibilities for career growth.
- Total Graphic Designer jobs: 11,430
- Average annual salary: $61,100
- Lowest 10 percent earn: $35,150
- Highest 10 percent earn: $98,250
- Location quotient: 1.52
7. Toronto, Canada
Toronto is a very important center of trade; with cultural diversification, the city has become an attractive location for graphic designers, offering the potential to be successful in their profession. The job market is growing, and the city offers many opportunities for design agencies, advertising firms, and startups. Furthermore, the salaries offered are relatively high, and there is a growing demand for qualified graphic designers in the workers' market. Thus, all of these advantages make Toronto one of the most popular destinations for design industry specialists.
- Average annual salary: CAD 55,000 ($43,700)
- The lowest 10 percent earn: CAD 35,000 ($27,800)
- Highest 10 percent earn: CAD 85,000 ($67,500)
- Location quotient: 1.7
8. Amsterdam, Netherlands
The city of Amsterdam is well known for its vibrancy, expressiveness, and, notably, cultural diversity. The surroundings also inspire individual designers, both new and experienced, owing to the city’s original approach at the confluence of the old and the new.
Fixed-term contracts, a good idea of life, combined with high salaries offered by employers, make the city one of the best destinations for graphic designing jobs.
- Total Graphic Designer jobs: 6,500
- Average annual salary: €45,000 ($53,300)
- Lowest 10 percent earn: €30,000 ($35,500)
- Highest 10 percent earn: €70,000 ($82,900)
- Location quotient: 2.0
9. Melbourne, Australia
Melbourne is a creative place with a very engaging design community and a very spirited advertising industry. A not-so-fast environment and a rich culture are the city's main elements that promote Melbourne as an interesting place for the artist. With the market of high-paid artists and the demand for design specialists, it is obvious that Melbourne provides compelling opportunities for budding artists in the design field.
- Total Graphic Designer jobs: 7,200
- Average annual salary: AUD 65,000 ($49,800)
- Lowest 10 percent earn: AUD 45,000 ($34,500)
- Highest 10 percent earn: AUD 95,000 ($72,800)
- Location quotient: 1.6
10. Stockholm, Sweden
Stockholm prides itself on being a city that is a forerunner in creative design and novel ideation. The city's sleek and modern look and the presence of the tech area create a unique atmosphere for graphic designers. Thanks to competitive salaries and a high requirement for qualified professionals, Stockholm is a very tempting location for people who want to improve their careers in design.
- Total Graphic Designer jobs: 4,800
- Average annual salary: SEK 420,000 ($49,400)
- The lowest 10 percent earn: SEK 300,000 ($35,300)
- Highest 10 percent earn: SEK 600,000 ($70,600)
- Location quotient: 1.8
11. Singapore
Singapore, with its vibrant and contemporary design industry, is a colorful city-state. The city exhibits a blend of old and new architectural styles, which the artists and graphic designers like. With a thriving economy and an abundant supply of jobs, it is not uncommon for Singapore to dish out high salaries and even build the careers of professionals in the field of design.
- Total Graphic Designer jobs: 5,500
- Average annual salary: SGD 48,000 ($35,700)
- The lowest 10 percent earn: SGD 30,000 ($22,300)
- Highest 10 percent earn: SGD 80,000 ($59,500)
- Location quotient: 1.55
12. Barcelona, Spain
One of Spain's most cultural and creative cities is Barcelona, which has artistic fashion and is the center of attraction for many graphic designers. Barcelona, with its traditional and modern design innovation, acts as a never-ending source of creativity and inspiration. It gives a rare combination of traditional architecture and modern design to the creatives, making the entire city's architecture an ideal place for graphic designers. Barcelona is one of the most favorable places for designers to come and settle down easily. Due to its financial benefits and skilled workers, the city is a magnet for those in the design field who want to succeed.
- Total Graphic Designer jobs: 5,000
- Average annual salary: €30,000 ($35,500)
- The lowest 10 percent earn: €20,000 ($23,700)
- Highest 10 percent earn: €50,000 ($59,200)
- Location quotient: 1.75
13. Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver is an ever-growing creative industries center with an emphasis on sustainability and design thinking. The natural charm of the outstanding beauty and the arts and culture scene describes the city as an important location for graphic designers. Vancouver is a city where competition for the best employees has been coupled with high salaries and growth in the design sector.
- Total Graphic Designer jobs: 4,600
- Average annual salary: CAD 52,000 ($41,300)
- The lowest 10 percent earn: CAD 35,000 ($27,800)
- Highest 10 percent earn: CAD 80,000 ($63,500)
- Location quotient: 1.6
14. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen is a city that is associated with bold development and a sustainable lifestyle. The strong culture of the city in terms of design and innovation has built a platform for the graphic designer to aim high. Apart from large paychecks and an undermanned labor market, Copenhagen is one of the most favored places for budding designers to work in.
- Total Graphic Designer jobs: 3,800
- Average annual salary: DKK 420,000 ($66,800)
- The lowest 10 percent earn: DKK 300,000 ($47,700)
- Highest 10 percent earn: DKK 600,000 ($95,400)
- Location quotient: 1.9
15. Dubai, UAE
Dubai is a quickly expanding city that is supported by a sturdy economy and is known for its fashion industry. The city's combination of sophistication and various cultural influences helps the place to become an attractive spot for graphic designers. The city is propelled by the salary of its professionals, and the endless number of skilled professionals will always be in demand, which makes Dubai a great place if you are a professional in the design field.
- Total Graphic Designer jobs: 3,500
- Average annual salary: AED 120,000 ($32,700)
- The lowest 10 percent earn: AED 60,000 ($16,300)
- Highest 10 per cent earn: AED 240,000 ($65,300)
- Location quotient: 1.5
Graphic designers have various options in these cities. Each city offers a different type of culture, the focus of the industry, and the way of life. If you are thinking of changing your residence, the first thing to do is to study visa requirements, cost of living, and other specialists in your field in your desired destination. It is possible for graphic designers to find success and satisfaction in these cities if they have the right skills and determination.
Conclusion
Art and creativity are in huge global demand. You can always go abroad to work as a graphic designer. This blog clears your doubts about the different aspects of working abroad as a graphic designer and the steps to take when making decisions. The countries mentioned above are the best for graphic designers, depending on salary, work culture, and career growth. You can choose one that suits your personal preferences.
If you are a graphic designer looking for better moving options, TerraTern can be your guide and will make your process smoother and easier!
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