Designer Salaries and Fees in Switzerland 2025 – An Economic Analysis

Designer salaries and fees in Switzerland in 2025 – An empirical analysis of the economic situation of design professionals

The Swiss Design Association (SDA) commissioned the Zurich Centre for Creative Economies (ZCCE) to conduct a comprehensive study of the incomes and fees of designers in Switzerland.

The aim of the survey is to create, for the first time, a reliable, data-based foundation to highlight the realities of work and pay in Swiss design and to provide guidance in this diverse, dynamic, and often opaque professional field. The publication of this study responds to a clearly expressed need of our members and partners, and strengthens the strategic orientation of our professional association for a sound, evidence based development of the industry.

Key findings of the study

The economic situation of designers varies significantly depending on whether they are employed or self-employed. This is reflected not only in the level of income, but also in its predictability and security, as well as in the availability of social and retirement benefits.

Gender-specific differences persist across roles, activities, and forms of employment. Both in terms of income and fees, the gender pay gap is significantly above the Swiss average – indicating the need for continued political and structural action.

The fee analysis also shows that seniority, experience, and level of responsibility play a much greater role than the type of service provided. Many designers perceive their financial situation as fragile and are concerned about their professional future and retirement benefits.

Entering the labour market is particularly challenging for young professionals. It turns out that practice-oriented educational pathways – especially higher technical colleges and professional certificates – are highly valued in the labour market. Academic degree programs, including bachelor’s degrees from universities of applied sciences, do not automatically lead to better financial prospects, which highlights the need to rethink the actual educational returns of different training pathways.

How the SDA will continue its work

The available data will be used to advocate for fair wage and fee conditions in the political and economic spheres: the SDA is using the findings of the study as a basis for its next steps. Building on the patterns that have emerged, it is working with members, partners from politics, business, and educational institutions to strengthen transparency and fairness in Swiss design and to improve the framework conditions for the profession in the long term.

In order to highlight developments in the Swiss design market not just selectively but over the long term, the SDA repeats this study every two years. The aim is to keep the wage monitor up to date in order to provide, over time, a reliable, continuous data basis to track the changes in wages and fees in Swiss design, while at the same time creating the transparency that many members have long been calling for. The current study thus forms an important starting point for in-depth discussions, professional exchange, and the further development of knowledge and skills within the industry. It provides a solid basis for actively shaping the future viability of the design industry in Switzerland in an evidence-based manner.

Summary of the Study (Brochure ENG): swiss-design-association.ch/files/LHS25/Brochure_[…]2025_EN.pdf

The complete scientific study (in German) can be obtained from the Swiss Design Association office: [email protected]

The salary and fee study was initiated by the Swiss Design Association (SDA) and conducted and scientifically evaluated by the Zurich Center for Creative Economies (ZCCE). The study was financed by the SDA, the Federal Office of Culture (FOC), Pro Helvetia, and the Zurich Silk Industry Association.

More Information: swiss-design-association.ch/honorarstudie