Graphic Designer Salary in Virginia
Based on 5K+ workers in Virginia
Median Annual Salary (VA)
$72,310
$34.76/hr
vs National Average
$60,609
+19.3% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$39K – $122K
5K employed in Virginia
Understanding the Graphic Designer salary in Virginia reveals a median income of $72,310 annually. This figure positions Virginia significantly above the national average, with professionals in the state earning 19% more. With 4,740 workers contributing to this robust field, the demand and compensation reflect a healthy market for creative talent.
Several elements contribute to the variance within the Graphic Designer salary in Virginia, which ranges from $39,020 to $121,680. Factors such as years of experience, specific skill sets like UI/UX design or motion graphics, and the size and type of employer significantly influence earning potential. Location within Virginia, from major metropolitan areas to smaller towns, also plays a role in compensation levels.
Salary Distribution — Graphic Designer in Virginia
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $39,020 |
| 25th percentile | $52,470 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $72,310 |
| 75th percentile | $95,420 |
| 90th percentile | $121,680 |
Top-Paying Industries for Graphic Designer (U.S.)
Which industries pay Graphic Designers the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Graphic Designers in Virginia tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Utilities | $100,350 | 130 |
| Government (excl. schools, hospitals & USPS) | $78,930 | 5K |
| Management of Companies and Enterprises | $78,530 | 9K |
| Finance and Insurance | $77,600 | 4K |
| Administrative and Support Services | $70,920 | 8K |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Graphic Designer in Virginia vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Virginia) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $61,820 |
| 2023 | $62,990 |
| 2024 | $70,060 |
| 2025 | $72,310 |
| 2026 (projected) | $74,632 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Virginia Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | $61,820 | $53,507 |
| 2023 | $62,990 | $54,331 |
| 2024 | $70,060 | $57,115 |
| 2025 | $72,310 | $60,609 |
| 2026 (projected) | $74,632 | $62,555 |
Graphic Designer Salary by Experience Level in Virginia
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $52,470 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $72,310 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $95,420 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $121,680 |
Graphic Designer Salary in Other States
Related Graphic Designer Salaries in Virginia
How other high-demand occupations in Virginia compare to Graphic Designer ($72,310 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Graphic Designer | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Art Director in VA | $101,150 | +39.9% | $48.63/hr |
| Commercial and Industrial Designer in VA | $82,230 | +13.7% | $39.53/hr |
| Producer and Director in VA | $65,900 | -8.9% | $31.68/hr |
| Interior Designer in VA | $62,560 | -13.5% | $30.08/hr |
| Audio and Video Technician in VA | $53,960 | -25.4% | $25.94/hr |
| Air Traffic Controller in VA | $72,250 | -0.1% | $34.74/hr |
| Secondary School Teacher in VA | $72,170 | -0.2% | $34.70/hr |
| Computer Network Support Specialist in VA | $76,760 | +6.2% | $36.90/hr |
| School Counselor in VA | $67,660 | -6.4% | $32.53/hr |
| Market Research Analyst in VA | $76,980 | +6.5% | $37.01/hr |
| Web and Digital Interface Designer in VA | $77,140 | +6.7% | $37.09/hr |
| Real Estate Broker in VA | $77,270 | +6.9% | $37.15/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a graphic designer make in Virginia?
- The median salary for a graphic designer in Virginia is $72,310 per year, which breaks down to about $35 per hour. The salary range for graphic designers in Virginia typically falls between $39,020 and $121,680 annually.
What is the average salary for a graphic designer in Virginia compared to the national average?
- Graphic designers in Virginia earn a median salary of $72,310 per year, which is 19.3% higher than the national average. This means Virginia offers a more lucrative market for graphic design professionals than the country as a whole.
What is the typical salary range for graphic designers in Virginia?
- In Virginia, graphic designers can expect their salaries to range from $39,020 on the lower end to $121,680 at the higher end. The median salary of $72,310 sits comfortably within this spectrum.
How many graphic designers are employed in Virginia?
- There are approximately 4,740 graphic designers currently employed in Virginia. This indicates a significant demand for these creative professionals within the state.