Phoenix vs Flagstaff: Graphic Designer Salary (2026)
Compare graphic designer salaries between Phoenix, AZ and Flagstaff, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Phoenix, AZ | Flagstaff, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $61,075 | $63,701▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $29.36 | $30.63▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $47,298▲ | $43,391 |
| 25th Percentile | $52,610▲ | $47,918 |
| 75th Percentile | $78,657▲ | $72,559 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $92,394▲ | $80,300 |
| Total Employed | 2,810▲ | 60 |
Verdict
Phoenix and Flagstaff are closely matched on overall graphic designer compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Phoenix and Flagstaff is $2,626 (4.30%). Flagstaff's median is -2.11% compared to the US national median of $65,075.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Phoenix spans $45,096,Flagstaff spans $36,909. Phoenix 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, Flagstaff ($63,495 effective) pays 7.41% more than Phoenix ($59,115 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Phoenix if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($92,394)
- ✓Larger job market (2,810 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Choose Flagstaff if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($63,701/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $63,495)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, graphic designer salaries in Phoenix grew 17.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 23.2% growth in Flagstaff over the same period.
Phoenix, AZ
$50,360 (2019) → $59,090 (2025)
Flagstaff, AZ
$50,030 (2019) → $61,630 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Phoenix, AZ
Flagstaff, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays graphic designers more: Phoenix or Flagstaff?
What is the hourly rate difference between Phoenix and Flagstaff?
Should I relocate from Phoenix to Flagstaff as a graphic designer?
What do entry-level graphic designers earn in Phoenix vs Flagstaff?
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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