Creative & Education Maryland (MD) Rank #9 of 50

Graphic Designer Salary in Maryland

The median graphic designer salary in Maryland is $63,789 per year, which is 10.0% above the national median of $57,990.

Median Salary
$63,789
vs National
+$5,799
State Rank
#9 of 50
Cost of Living
110%

Graphic Designer Salary Overview in Maryland (2026)

Maryland ranks #9 out of 50 states for graphic designer compensation. This places Maryland in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for graphic designers seeking high pay. At $63,789 per year, graphic designers in Maryland earn $5,799 more than the national median of $57,990.

It's worth noting that Maryland's cost of living is 110% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $63,789 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $57,990.

The salary spread in Maryland is significant: graphic designers at the 10th percentile earn $40,040, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $108,020 — a $67,980 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Maryland for this role is Silver Spring, where the median reaches $70,748.

Nationally, graphic designer employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for graphic designers across the country.

Graphic Designer Salary in Maryland by Experience

In Maryland, an entry-level graphic designer earns around $41,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $96,800 per year. The cost of living index in Maryland is 110% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$41,800
+$3,800 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$63,800
+$5,800 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$96,800
+$8,800 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Maryland

Percentile MD Salary
10th Percentile $40,040
25th Percentile $49,940
Median (50th) $63,789
75th Percentile $82,060
90th Percentile $108,020

Graphic Designer Salary by City in Maryland

The largest employment areas for graphic designers in Maryland include Baltimore, Columbia, Silver Spring, and Germantown. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Graphic Designer in Maryland

Education

Most graphic designer positions require a bachelor's degree. Maryland has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Adobe Creative SuiteTypographyLayout DesignColor TheoryBrandingUI Design

Job Outlook in Maryland

Nationally, graphic designer employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Maryland's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Graphic Designer Salary in Maryland

How much does a Graphic Designer make in Maryland? ▼
The median graphic designer salary in Maryland is $63,789 per year, which is 10.0% above the national median of $57,990. Salaries range from $40,040 (10th percentile) to $108,020 (90th percentile).
How much does a Graphic Designer make per hour in Maryland? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $63,789, a graphic designer in Maryland earns approximately $31 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Maryland a good state for graphic designers? ▼
Maryland ranks #9 out of 50 states for graphic designer pay. The cost of living index is 110% of the national average. Entry-level graphic designers earn $41,800, while senior professionals earn $96,800.
How does Maryland compare to other states for graphic designer salary? ▼
The highest paying state for graphic designers is Hawaii at $98,583. Maryland's median of $63,789 ranks #9 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Washington ($66,689) and Connecticut ($64,949).
What is the entry-level graphic designer salary in Maryland? ▼
An entry-level graphic designer in Maryland earns approximately $41,800 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $63,800. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $96,800.
What city in Maryland pays graphic designers the most? ▼
Silver Spring is the highest paying city in Maryland for graphic designers, with a median salary of $70,748. Other cities include Baltimore and Columbia.