East Honolulu vs Honolulu: Graphic Designer Salary (2026)
Compare graphic designer salaries between East Honolulu, HI and Honolulu, HI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | East Honolulu, HI | Honolulu, HI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $76,104 | $82,608▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $36.59 | $39.71▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $47,405 | $48,211▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $58,485 | $61,288▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $95,407 | $105,738▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $117,962 | $128,043▲ |
| Total Employed | 12 | 68▲ |
Verdict
Honolulu, HI offers better overall compensation for graphic designers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to East Honolulu.
The salary gap between East Honolulu and Honolulu is $6,504 (8.55%). Honolulu's median is +26.94% compared to the US national median of $65,075.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in East Honolulu spans $70,557,Honolulu spans $79,832. Honolulu 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, Honolulu ($69,244 effective) pays 8.55% more than East Honolulu ($63,792 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose East Honolulu if…
- ✓You prefer the Hawaii area and lifestyle
Choose Honolulu if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($82,608/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($128,043)
- ✓Larger job market (68 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $69,244)
- ✓You prefer the Hawaii area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, graphic designer salaries in East Honolulu grew 4.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 4.9% growth in Honolulu over the same period.
East Honolulu, HI
$70,169 (2024) → $73,630 (2025)
Honolulu, HI
$76,166 (2024) → $79,923 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
East Honolulu, HI
Honolulu, HI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays graphic designers more: East Honolulu or Honolulu?
What is the hourly rate difference between East Honolulu and Honolulu?
Should I relocate from East Honolulu to Honolulu as a graphic designer?
What do entry-level graphic designers earn in East Honolulu vs Honolulu?
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