Chief Design Officer Salary in Denver, Colorado

Denver is a regional tech and business hub. High demand from digital agencies, SaaS companies, and large healthcare systems pushes chief design officer salaries above state averages.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

$120,000 to $158,000

Average (per year)

$139,000

Salaries for entry-level CDOs in Denver often reflect the competition for rising design leaders joining creative agencietition for rising design leaders.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

$158,000 to $192,000

Average (per year)

$175,000

Strong pay increases are common for mid-level positions overseeing large product teams in healthcare or technology firmsreases.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

$192,000 to $235,000

Average (per year)

$213,000

Strong compensation packages are typical for senior CDOs managing design vision for major employers in software, financepackages.

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

$235,000+

Significant equity or bonuses often accompany principal-level roles heading design strategy at unicorn startups or large or bonuses.

Hourly Rates

For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.

Junior

$75 - $110

per hour

Mid-level

$110 - $145

per hour

Senior

$145 - $180

per hour