Ellensburg vs Olympia: Graphic Designer Salary (2026)
Compare graphic designer salaries between Ellensburg, WA and Olympia, WA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Ellensburg, WA | Olympia, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $66,762 | $69,985▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $32.09 | $33.64▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $43,686 | $47,484▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $52,469 | $58,347▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $84,138 | $85,582▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $103,482▲ | $103,071 |
| Total Employed | 6 | 110▲ |
Verdict
Olympia, WA offers better overall compensation for graphic designers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Ellensburg.
The salary gap between Ellensburg and Olympia is $3,223 (4.83%). Olympia's median is +7.55% compared to the US national median of $65,075.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Ellensburg spans $59,796,Olympia spans $55,587. Ellensburg 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, Olympia ($67,507 effective) pays 8.60% more than Ellensburg ($62,162 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Ellensburg if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($103,482)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Choose Olympia if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($69,985/year)
- ✓Larger job market (110 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $67,507)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, graphic designer salaries in Ellensburg grew -12.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 25.3% growth in Olympia over the same period.
Ellensburg, WA
$73,767 (2024) → $64,592 (2025)
Olympia, WA
$54,030 (2019) → $67,710 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Ellensburg, WA
Olympia, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays graphic designers more: Ellensburg or Olympia?
What is the hourly rate difference between Ellensburg and Olympia?
Should I relocate from Ellensburg to Olympia as a graphic designer?
What do entry-level graphic designers earn in Ellensburg vs Olympia?
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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