Chief Design Officer Salary in Royal Oak, Michigan

Royal Oak sits just north of Detroit and draws on metro Detroit's automotive, healthcare, and technology sectors. Local startups and satellite offices drive executive design salaries. Cost of living stays moderate, making these roles attractive for experienced leaders.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

$108,000 to $132,000

Average (per year)

$120,000

Assist senior designers, create visual assets, support brand guidelines, and coordinate design projects.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

$133,000 to $165,000

Average (per year)

$149,000

Earnings increase at the mid-level for those with proven leadership in automotive-adjacent firms or product design.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

$166,000 to $210,000

Average (per year)

$188,000

Salaries reach the higher end of the local range for Senior Chief Design Officers who oversee cross-functional projects gher end in this city.

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

$211,000+

Leads overall design strategy, mentors senior designers, and aligns product vision with business goals.

Hourly Rates

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

Junior

$55 - $75

per hour

Mid-level

$76 - $110

per hour

Senior

$111 - $145

per hour