Bluffton vs Columbia: Graphic Designer Salary (2026)
Compare graphic designer salaries between Bluffton, SC and Columbia, SC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bluffton, SC | Columbia, SC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $59,489▲ | $57,561 |
| Hourly Rate | $28.60▲ | $27.67 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $39,309▲ | $38,460 |
| 25th Percentile | $47,195▲ | $47,163 |
| 75th Percentile | $76,145▲ | $67,835 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $92,207▲ | $89,138 |
| Total Employed | 6 | 320▲ |
Verdict
Bluffton, SC offers better overall compensation for graphic designers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Columbia.
The salary gap between Bluffton and Columbia is $1,928 (3.35%). Bluffton's median is -8.58% compared to the US national median of $65,075.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bluffton spans $52,898,Columbia spans $50,678. Bluffton 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, Bluffton ($65,015 effective) pays 5.79% more than Columbia ($61,456 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bluffton if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($59,489/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($92,207)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $65,015)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Columbia if…
- ✓Larger job market (320 employed)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, graphic designer salaries in Bluffton grew 32.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 37.4% growth in Columbia over the same period.
Bluffton, SC
$43,534 (2024) → $57,555 (2025)
Columbia, SC
$40,530 (2019) → $55,690 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bluffton, SC
Columbia, SC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays graphic designers more: Bluffton or Columbia?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bluffton and Columbia?
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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