Denver vs Fort Collins: Graphic Designer Salary (2026)
Compare graphic designer salaries between Denver, CO and Fort Collins, CO. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Denver, CO | Fort Collins, CO |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $74,936▲ | $64,145 |
| Hourly Rate | $36.03▲ | $30.84 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $49,602▲ | $46,099 |
| 25th Percentile | $59,928▲ | $51,163 |
| 75th Percentile | $93,820▲ | $81,251 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $128,063▲ | $125,014 |
| Total Employed | 2,590▲ | 240 |
Verdict
Denver, CO offers better overall compensation for graphic designers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Fort Collins.
The salary gap between Denver and Fort Collins is $10,791 (16.82%). Denver's median is +15.15% compared to the US national median of $65,075.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Denver spans $78,461,Fort Collins spans $78,915. Fort Collins has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced graphic designers.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Denver ($70,840 effective) pays 11.68% more than Fort Collins ($63,430 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Denver if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($74,936/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($128,063)
- ✓Larger job market (2,590 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $70,840)
- ✓You prefer the Colorado area and lifestyle
Choose Fort Collins if…
- ✓You prefer the Colorado area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, graphic designer salaries in Denver grew 28.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 23.4% growth in Fort Collins over the same period.
Denver, CO
$56,650 (2019) → $72,500 (2025)
Fort Collins, CO
$50,290 (2019) → $62,060 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Denver, CO
Fort Collins, CO
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays graphic designers more: Denver or Fort Collins?
What is the hourly rate difference between Denver and Fort Collins?
Should I relocate from Denver to Fort Collins as a graphic designer?
What do entry-level graphic designers earn in Denver vs Fort Collins?
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