Cincinnati vs Kettering: Graphic Designer Salary (2026)
Compare graphic designer salaries between Cincinnati, OH and Kettering, OH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Cincinnati, OH | Kettering, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $64,352▲ | $62,230 |
| Hourly Rate | $30.94▲ | $29.92 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $41,520▲ | $40,181 |
| 25th Percentile | $51,856▲ | $49,036 |
| 75th Percentile | $84,011▲ | $79,654 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $103,980▲ | $96,457 |
| Total Employed | 1,730▲ | 10 |
Verdict
Cincinnati, OH offers better overall compensation for graphic designers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Kettering.
The salary gap between Cincinnati and Kettering is $2,122 (3.41%). Cincinnati's median is -1.11% compared to the US national median of $65,075.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Cincinnati spans $62,460,Kettering spans $56,276. Cincinnati 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, Kettering ($68,611 effective) pays 1.68% more than Cincinnati ($67,476 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Cincinnati if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($64,352/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($103,980)
- ✓Larger job market (1,730 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Choose Kettering if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $68,611)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, graphic designer salaries in Cincinnati grew 27.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 23.6% growth in Kettering over the same period.
Cincinnati, OH
$48,720 (2019) → $62,260 (2025)
Kettering, OH
$48,720 (2024) → $60,207 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Cincinnati, OH
Kettering, OH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays graphic designers more: Cincinnati or Kettering?
What is the hourly rate difference between Cincinnati and Kettering?
Should I relocate from Cincinnati to Kettering as a graphic designer?
What do entry-level graphic designers earn in Cincinnati vs Kettering?
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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