Graphic Designers Salary in Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV

Median annual salary $82,360 +34.4% vs national
Median hourly $39.60
10th percentile $48,900
90th percentile $132,460
Employed locally 4,670
National median $61,300

Compare Graphic Designers salary & buying power

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Graphic Designers
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    In Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV, graphic designers earn a median annual salary of $82,360, with an hourly wage of $39.60, which is significantly higher than the national median salary for this occupation at $61,300. This local median income reflects a competitive rate in comparison to the area's median household income of $123,896. The higher earnings indicate that graphic designers in this region may be better positioned financially relative to other professions within the same geographical area, and this aligns with the lower unemployment rate of 3.00%, suggesting a healthy job market for such skilled professionals.

    Entry-level graphic designers tend to earn near the 10th percentile at approximately $48,900 annually, while those more experienced can see earnings around the 75th percentile or higher at about $105,440 annually, with some reaching up to the 90th percentile earning $132,460. The disparity in wages between entry-level and seasoned professionals is driven by factors such as expertise, portfolio quality, industry demand, and specialization. Experienced designers often command higher salaries due to their proven track record of delivering impactful work and their ability to manage complex projects or lead design teams.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $48,900
    25th
    $63,980
    50th (median)
    $82,360
    75th
    $105,440
    90th
    $132,460

    Washington economic context

    Unemployment rate 3.00% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $123,896 2023 • Census ACS
    Graphic Designers salary vs area income 66% Median Graphic Designers salary is 34% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Graphic Designers make per hour in Washington?

    The median hourly wage for Graphic Designers in Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV is $39.60, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $63.37 or more per hour.

    Is Washington above or below average for Graphic Designers salaries?

    The median Graphic Designers salary in Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV is 34.4% above the national median of $61,300. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Graphic Designers in Washington?

    Entry-level Graphic Designers (10th percentile) earn around $48,900 per year in Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $63,980.