Phoenix vs Tempe: Graphic Designer Salary (2026)
Compare graphic designer salaries between Phoenix, AZ and Tempe, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Phoenix, AZ | Tempe, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $61,075▲ | $59,922 |
| Hourly Rate | $29.36▲ | $28.81 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $47,298▲ | $38,902 |
| 25th Percentile | $52,610▲ | $47,305 |
| 75th Percentile | $78,657▲ | $76,700 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $92,394 | $92,879▲ |
| Total Employed | 2,810▲ | 43 |
Verdict
Phoenix, AZ offers better overall compensation for graphic designers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Tempe.
The salary gap between Phoenix and Tempe is $1,153 (1.92%). Phoenix's median is -6.15% 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,Tempe spans $53,977. Tempe 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, Tempe ($60,835 effective) pays 2.91% 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…
- ✓Higher median salary ($61,075/year)
- ✓Larger job market (2,810 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Choose Tempe if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($92,879)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $60,835)
- ✓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 1.1% growth in Tempe over the same period.
Phoenix, AZ
$50,360 (2019) → $59,090 (2025)
Tempe, AZ
$57,371 (2024) → $57,974 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Phoenix, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays graphic designers more: Phoenix or Tempe?
What is the hourly rate difference between Phoenix and Tempe?
Should I relocate from Phoenix to Tempe as a graphic designer?
What do entry-level graphic designers earn in Phoenix vs Tempe?
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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