In Baltimore, MD, Graphic Designers earn a median of $60,480 a year — about 7% below the U.S. median of $64,700. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #18.
What that pay is worth in Baltimore
Local prices run 104 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $64,890 salary buys less than it looks — about $62,103 in national-average buying power.
Can Graphic Designers afford a home in Baltimore?
A typical Baltimore home runs about $219,300 — 3.4 times the average Graphic Designer salary, manageable against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,290/mo takes roughly 24% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Graphic Designer pay ladder in Baltimore
Entry-level (10th percentile) Graphic Designers earn about $36,600; the top 10% reach $98,560 — a $61,960 spread, wide for this field. Most of that gap comes down to experience, employer, and how hard you negotiate.
The Graphic Designer job market in Baltimore
Baltimore employs roughly 1,550 Graphic Designers. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Baltimore with other cities
See the full Graphic Designer salary by city ranking to weigh Baltimore against the other metros on both pay and cost-adjusted value, or use the cost-of-living calculator to compare any two cities directly.
Frequently asked questions
How much do Graphic Designers make in Baltimore?
The average Graphic Designer in Baltimore, MD earns about $64,890 per year, 0.3% above the national average of $64,700.
What is the take-home pay for Graphic Designers in Baltimore after taxes?
After federal and MD taxes, this $64,890 salary is worth about $51,448 a year - roughly $4,287 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 21%.
What do the highest-paid Graphic Designers earn in Baltimore?
The top 10% of Graphic Designers in Baltimore earn about $98,560 a year, versus about $36,600 for the bottom 10%.
Can Graphic Designers afford a home in Baltimore?
A typical Baltimore home runs about $219,300 - roughly 3.4x this salary, within reach by the classic 3x rule of thumb.