Chief Design Officer Salary in Buncombe County
Buncombe County includes Asheville, which has tourism, tech startups, and creative industries. An influx of remote-first companies and higher cost of living have pushed executive salaries up in recent years. Chief Design Officers here often guide design for fast-growing tech firms or established healthcare systems.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$95,000 to $120,000
Average (per year)
$107,000
Assist senior designers in developing brand concepts, creating mockups, and coordinating design projects.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$120,000 to $150,000
Average (per year)
$135,000
Oversee design projects, coordinate cross‑functional teams, and ensure brand consistency across products.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$150,000 to $185,000
Average (per year)
$165,000
Leads design strategy, oversees cross‑functional teams, and ensures brand consistency across products.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$185,000+
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
$60 - $85
per hour
Mid-level
$85 - $120
per hour
Senior
$120 - $175
per hour