Fairfax vs Richmond: Graphic Designer Salary (2026)
Compare graphic designer salaries between Fairfax, VA and Richmond, VA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Fairfax, VA | Richmond, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $59,326 | $68,579▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $28.52 | $32.97▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $38,642 | $40,538▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $46,683 | $52,342▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $74,821 | $84,207▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $91,954 | $109,706▲ |
| Total Employed | 4 | 760▲ |
Verdict
Richmond, VA offers better overall compensation for graphic designers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Fairfax.
The salary gap between Fairfax and Richmond is $9,253 (15.60%). Richmond's median is +5.38% compared to the US national median of $65,075.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Fairfax spans $53,312,Richmond spans $69,168. Richmond has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced graphic designers.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Richmond ($70,080 effective) pays 21.91% more than Fairfax ($57,486 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Fairfax if…
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Choose Richmond if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($68,579/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($109,706)
- ✓Larger job market (760 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $70,080)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, graphic designer salaries in Fairfax grew -6.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 22.0% growth in Richmond over the same period.
Fairfax, VA
$61,086 (2024) → $57,397 (2025)
Richmond, VA
$54,370 (2019) → $66,350 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Fairfax, VA
Richmond, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays graphic designers more: Fairfax or Richmond?
What is the hourly rate difference between Fairfax and Richmond?
Should I relocate from Fairfax to Richmond as a graphic designer?
What do entry-level graphic designers earn in Fairfax vs Richmond?
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