Chief Design Officer Salary in Arizona, United States
Phoenix offers a median salary of $140,000 for Chief Design Officers. Technology and aerospace firms are among the employers in the region.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$98,000 to $125,000
Average (per year)
$111,000
Assist senior designers in developing visual concepts, preparing presentations, and coordinating design projects.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$125,000 to $155,000
Average (per year)
$140,000
Government and education institutions offer leadership positions with modest salary increases for mid-level roles.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$152,000 to $186,000
Average (per year)
$170,000
Leads design strategy, oversees cross‑functional teams, and ensures brand consistency across products.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$186,000+
Leads strategic design vision, oversees cross‑functional teams, and drives innovation across the organization.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$50 - $69
per hour
Mid-level
$70 - $93
per hour
Senior
$94 - $124
per hour
Arizona's median sits above the national average of $130,000. The cost of living in the area is modest.