Cincinnati vs Cleveland: Graphic Designer Salary (2026)
Compare graphic designer salaries between Cincinnati, OH and Cleveland, OH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Cincinnati, OH | Cleveland, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $64,352▲ | $61,789 |
| Hourly Rate | $30.94▲ | $29.71 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $41,520▲ | $41,137 |
| 25th Percentile | $51,856▲ | $48,900 |
| 75th Percentile | $84,011▲ | $76,755 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $103,980▲ | $90,337 |
| Total Employed | 1,730▲ | 1,430 |
Verdict
Cincinnati, OH offers better overall compensation for graphic designers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Cleveland.
The salary gap between Cincinnati and Cleveland is $2,563 (4.15%). Cincinnati's median is -1.11% compared to the US national median of $65,075.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Cincinnati spans $62,460,Cleveland spans $49,200. Cincinnati has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Cincinnati ($67,476 effective) pays 2.57% more than Cleveland ($65,787 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Cincinnati if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($64,352/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($103,980)
- ✓Larger job market (1,730 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $67,476)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Choose Cleveland if…
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, graphic designer salaries in Cincinnati grew 27.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 18.1% growth in Cleveland over the same period.
Cincinnati, OH
$48,720 (2019) → $62,260 (2025)
Cleveland, OH
$50,630 (2019) → $59,780 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Cincinnati, OH
Cleveland, OH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays graphic designers more: Cincinnati or Cleveland?
What is the hourly rate difference between Cincinnati and Cleveland?
Should I relocate from Cincinnati to Cleveland as a graphic designer?
What do entry-level graphic designers earn in Cincinnati vs Cleveland?
Related Comparisons
Written by Jordan Lee, MFA
Career Analyst
Jordan Lee has 10 years of experience in graphic design. They specialize in branding and visual identity. Their work includes freelance projects for small businesses.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 3.36% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Jordan Lee, MFA, a licensed graphic designer with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov