Chief Design Officer Salary in Tennessee, United States
In Nashville, Chief Design Officers earn a median of $132,000 annually. The region has many employers.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$95,000 to $120,000
Average (per year)
$107,000
Medium-sized manufacturers and regional agencies often hire recent graduates.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$120,000 to $144,000
Average (per year)
$132,000
Health tech startups and logistics companies frequently employ design leaders with track records.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$145,000 to $168,000
Average (per year)
$155,000
In larger enterprises, experienced officers usually manage teams or oversee design for regional brands.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$169,000+
Strategy at corporate headquarters or major healthcare networks is often led by high performers.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$50 - $65
per hour
Mid-level
$66 - $85
per hour
Senior
$86 - $115
per hour
The national median for this role is $150,000, while Tennessee's median is lower.