Generative AI tools compressing entry-level pay. Senior brand designers still well-paid.
Pay scales steeply with tenure for Graphic Designers. National figures, before regional adjustments.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry Level (0–1 yr) | $45,500 | $33,100 | $60,300 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $56,600 | $41,100 | $74,900 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $65,100 | $47,300 | $86,200 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $78,100 | $56,700 | $103,400 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $88,500 | $64,300 | $117,200 |
Top 10 states by median Graphic Designer salary in 2026.
| State | Median | 25th % | 75th % | vs Nat'l |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washington DC | $91,200 | $69,300 | $118,600 | +40% |
| California | $86,000 | $65,300 | $111,800 | +32% |
| New York | $84,700 | $64,400 | $110,100 | +30% |
| Washington | $84,700 | $64,400 | $110,100 | +30% |
| New Jersey | $82,100 | $62,400 | $106,700 | +26% |
| Connecticut | $78,800 | $59,900 | $102,500 | +21% |
| Maryland | $78,200 | $59,400 | $101,600 | +20% |
| Massachusetts | $76,900 | $58,400 | $99,900 | +18% |
| Colorado | $76,200 | $57,900 | $99,100 | +17% |
| Hawaii | $74,300 | $56,400 | $96,500 | +14% |
| State | Median | 25th % | 75th % | vs Nat'l |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | $55,400 | $42,100 | $72,000 | -15% |
| North Dakota | $54,700 | $41,600 | $71,100 | -16% |
| Oklahoma | $54,700 | $41,600 | $71,100 | -16% |
| Wyoming | $54,700 | $41,600 | $71,100 | -16% |
| Alabama | $54,100 | $41,100 | $70,300 | -17% |
| Louisiana | $54,100 | $41,100 | $70,300 | -17% |
| Arkansas | $52,100 | $39,600 | $67,700 | -20% |
| South Dakota | $52,100 | $39,600 | $67,700 | -20% |
| Mississippi | $50,800 | $38,600 | $66,100 | -22% |
| West Virginia | $50,800 | $38,600 | $66,100 | -22% |
Metro-level pay frequently outpaces state averages — major metros concentrate higher wages.
Click any state for detailed breakdown by experience level and percentile.
The median is just a benchmark. Your exact market value also depends on your state, experience, and education. Use the free calculator for a personalized number.
Get my personal Graphic Designer salary report →