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How much does a Game Designer make?

The average salary for a Game Designer is $78,688 per year in the US.

Game designers play an important role in creating enjoyable and engaging video games. They develop the core concepts, rules, and mechanics that players interact with. It’s a creative job that also requires a strong understanding of technology and user experience. Because of these skills, game designers earn a good salary.


The average yearly salary for a game designer is around $78,688. However, this can vary based on experience, location, and the type of employer. Many designers work for large game studios and can earn more than the average. Junior designers, those with less experience, may start with a lower salary. But, as they gain more experience and develop their skills, they can expect their salary to increase. A game designer's salary can also rise with the completion of big projects and recognition in the industry.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Game Designer?

Game designers often find attractive opportunities in cities with thriving tech and entertainment industries. Reno, NV, leads the pack with an average salary of $133,906, offering a competitive edge for skilled designers. Los Angeles, CA, and Seattle, WA, also rank high with average salaries of $124,406 and $118,631, respectively. Seeking a lucrative career in game design? These top cities provide not only high pay but also a vibrant industry atmosphere to support professional growth.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Game Designer jobs, highlighting Reno, NV with the highest at $133,906 and Atlanta, GA with the lowest at $45,018.
  1. Reno, NV
    Average Salary: $133,906
    Reno offers a growing gaming industry with opportunities in tech companies. The local gaming scene is expanding, providing chances to work with smaller, innovative studios. Notable companies here include some boutique game developers.
    Find Game Designer jobs in Reno, NV


  2. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $124,406
    Los Angeles boasts a vibrant gaming culture with major studios like Blizzard and Ubisoft. Working here means collaborating with top talent in a city known for entertainment innovation. The city's entertainment industry offers a creative and dynamic environment.
    Find Game Designer jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  3. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $118,631
    Seattle is home to major game developers, including Microsoft and Nintendo. It's a great place for those looking to work on big projects with top-tier companies. The tech industry here offers many chances for growth and networking.
    Find Game Designer jobs in Seattle, WA


  4. Las Vegas, NV
    Average Salary: $113,119
    Las Vegas is known for its entertainment, offering unique opportunities in the gaming world. Companies here focus on interactive and immersive gaming experiences. Working in Las Vegas can be exciting and fast-paced.
    Find Game Designer jobs in Las Vegas, NV


  5. Austin, TX
    Average Salary: $73,500
    Austin has a lively gaming community with several indie studios. The city's tech scene is growing, providing a welcoming environment for new ideas. Companies here value creativity and innovation.
    Find Game Designer jobs in Austin, TX


  6. Atlanta, GA
    Average Salary: $45,018
    Atlanta offers a mix of opportunities in both established and emerging companies. The city's diverse gaming sector includes big names and indie developers. Atlanta provides a supportive environment for game design careers.
    Find Game Designer jobs in Atlanta, GA

What are the best companies a Game Designer can work for?

Companies like Hasbro, Inc. and Activate Games offer good opportunities for game designers. At Hasbro, Inc., game designers can expect an average salary of $120,338. This attractive compensation reflects the company's commitment to talent in the gaming industry. Activate Games provides a solid starting point with an average salary of $28,976, making it a valuable choice for those beginning their career in game design.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Game Designer jobs, highlighting Hasbro, Inc. with the highest at $120,338 and Activate Games with the lowest at $28,976.
  1. Hasbro, Inc.
    Average Salary: $120,338
    Hasbro, Inc. offers exciting Game Designer jobs with an average salary of $120,338. This top company provides creative opportunities to design games across various platforms. With locations in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, and other sites, Hasbro is a leader in the toy and game industry.


  2. Activate Games
    Average Salary: $28,976
    Activate Games provides Game Designer positions with an average salary of $28,976. This company focuses on interactive and fun gaming experiences. Based in San Francisco, California, Activate Games looks for designers who can create engaging content.

How to earn more as a Game Designer?

Becoming a Game Designer means creating engaging and entertaining experiences for players. To increase earnings in this role, focus on several key areas that can set a designer apart. Mastery of game design principles will lead to better games and higher pay.

Network with other professionals in the industry. Attending conferences and joining online communities can provide opportunities for collaboration and job leads. Building a strong network can lead to higher-paying positions and freelance opportunities. Stay updated with the latest trends and technologies. Game design is always changing. Keeping up with new tools and techniques will make a designer more valuable. This continuous learning can lead to promotions and higher salaries.

Consider specializing in a niche area. Whether it’s mobile games, VR experiences, or esports, specializing can make a designer more attractive to employers. This focus can lead to higher-paying projects and roles. Look for opportunities to work on high-profile projects. These projects often come with larger budgets and higher pay. Experience on big projects can lead to better-paying positions in the future.

Gain experience in different aspects of game design. This includes concept art, programming, and storytelling. A well-rounded skill set can command higher salaries. Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a Game Designer:

  1. Mastery of design principles
  2. Networking with professionals
  3. Staying updated with trends
  4. Specializing in a niche
  5. Gaining diverse experience

Currently 63 Game Designer job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Game Designer in the US?

Learn what a Game Designer does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Game Designer today.
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Game Designer
63 Job Openings