Bellevue vs Spokane: Graphic Designer Salary (2026)
Compare graphic designer salaries between Bellevue, WA and Spokane, WA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bellevue, WA | Spokane, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $80,075▲ | $58,429 |
| Hourly Rate | $38.50▲ | $28.09 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $47,333▲ | $45,551 |
| 25th Percentile | $59,933▲ | $49,602 |
| 75th Percentile | $102,496▲ | $72,486 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $124,117▲ | $92,921 |
| Total Employed | 26 | 270▲ |
Verdict
Bellevue, WA offers better overall compensation for graphic designers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Spokane.
The salary gap between Bellevue and Spokane is $21,646 (37.05%). Bellevue's median is +23.05% compared to the US national median of $65,075.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bellevue spans $76,784,Spokane spans $47,370. Bellevue 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, Bellevue ($74,558 effective) pays 28.05% more than Spokane ($58,228 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bellevue if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($80,075/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($124,117)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $74,558)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Choose Spokane if…
- ✓Larger job market (270 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, graphic designer salaries in Bellevue grew -1.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 42.0% growth in Spokane over the same period.
Bellevue, WA
$78,867 (2024) → $77,472 (2025)
Spokane, WA
$39,820 (2019) → $56,530 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bellevue, WA
Spokane, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays graphic designers more: Bellevue or Spokane?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bellevue and Spokane?
Should I relocate from Bellevue to Spokane as a graphic designer?
What do entry-level graphic designers earn in Bellevue vs Spokane?
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