Chief Design Officer Salary in Wake County
Wake County, anchored by Raleigh and the Research Triangle, draws top design leaders to its expanding tech and biotech sectors. Large employers and high competition push salaries above the national median. Cost of living sits below larger coastal cities but above many smaller Southern metros.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$116,000 to $150,000
Average (per year)
$132,000
Salaries reflect the concentration of tech startups, research organizations, and university-affiliated employers.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$151,000 to $198,000
Average (per year)
$172,000
Chief Design Officers often guide teams at growing SaaS firms or biotech companies located in the Research Triangle.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$199,000 to $246,000
Average (per year)
$225,000
Senior roles typically oversee organization-wide design strategy for large technology or healthcare employers with national reach.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$247,000+
Leads enterprise-wide design strategy, mentors senior designers, and aligns visual branding with business goals.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$70 - $105
per hour
Mid-level
$106 - $150
per hour
Senior
$151 - $210
per hour