Chief Design Officer Salary in South Carolina, United States
The median salary for chief design officers is $135,500 per year. The figure reflects mid‑level experience. Salaries for chief design officers vary across industries.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$96,500 to $120,500
Average (per year)
$108,500
Assist senior design leadership, coordinate project assets, and support development of design guidelines.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$121,500 to $148,500
Average (per year)
$135,500
Oversee design strategy, mentor junior designers, and align projects with brand objectives.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$149,500 to $178,000
Average (per year)
$164,000
Leads design strategy, oversees cross‑functional teams, and ensures brand consistency across products.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$178,500+
Compensation typically reflects the influence and responsibility of those overseeing strategic design initiatives or larponsibility.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$50 - $67
per hour
Mid-level
$68 - $89
per hour
Senior
$90 - $118
per hour
Nationally, chief design officers average around $150,000, placing South Carolina slightly below the benchmark.