Aspen Hill vs Baltimore: Graphic Designer Salary (2026)
Compare graphic designer salaries between Aspen Hill, MD and Baltimore, MD. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Aspen Hill, MD | Baltimore, MD |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $72,114 | $78,337▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $34.67 | $37.66▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $45,132 | $47,535▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $55,751 | $60,000▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $92,307 | $92,394▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $111,778▲ | $110,719 |
| Total Employed | 8 | 1,350▲ |
Verdict
Baltimore, MD offers better overall compensation for graphic designers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Aspen Hill.
The salary gap between Aspen Hill and Baltimore is $6,223 (8.63%). Baltimore's median is +20.38% compared to the US national median of $65,075.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Aspen Hill spans $66,646,Baltimore spans $63,184. Aspen Hill 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, Baltimore ($74,973 effective) pays 13.63% more than Aspen Hill ($65,978 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Aspen Hill if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($111,778)
- ✓You prefer the Maryland area and lifestyle
Choose Baltimore if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($78,337/year)
- ✓Larger job market (1,350 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $74,973)
- ✓You prefer the Maryland area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, graphic designer salaries in Aspen Hill grew -3.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 47.0% growth in Baltimore over the same period.
Aspen Hill, MD
$72,031 (2024) → $69,770 (2025)
Baltimore, MD
$51,560 (2019) → $75,790 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Aspen Hill, MD
Baltimore, MD
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays graphic designers more: Aspen Hill or Baltimore?
What is the hourly rate difference between Aspen Hill and Baltimore?
Should I relocate from Aspen Hill to Baltimore as a graphic designer?
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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