Best way to earn more as a Graphic Designer
As a Graphic Designer, your time is valuable. Here's how the three main income paths compare — so you can pick the one with the best return on your hours.
Upskill
Figma, user research, design systems. Engineers with design skills are rare and valuable. The highest-ROI skill for Graphic Designers is typically UX & Design Skills, adding €4,400–€8,250/year (8–15%) after 3–6 months.
Side hustle
UI/UX design, brand identity, web design for clients. Strong demand from startups and SMBs. Freelance Design pays €35–€90/hour. At 10h/week that's €1,400–€3,600/month of immediate income.
Switch jobs
A strategic job move could mean a 15–40% salary increase — often the single biggest income jump a Graphic Designer can make.
The verdict
For most Graphic Designers, the best long-term path is skill investment. But if you need income now, side hustles deliver immediately. Use the tool to see which wins for your specific salary and situation.