Creative & Education Minnesota (MN) Rank #20 of 50

Graphic Designer Salary in Minnesota

The median graphic designer salary in Minnesota is $56,250 per year, which is 3% below the national median of $57,990.

Median Salary
$56,250
vs National
$-1,740
State Rank
#20 of 50
Cost of Living
97%

Graphic Designer Salary Overview in Minnesota (2026)

Minnesota ranks #20 out of 50 states for graphic designer compensation. Minnesota falls in the middle of the pack for graphic designer pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $56,250 per year, graphic designers in Minnesota earn $1,740 less than the national median of $57,990.

Minnesota's cost of living is near the national average at 97%, meaning graphic designer salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.

The salary spread in Minnesota is significant: graphic designers at the 10th percentile earn $35,308, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $95,254 — a $59,946 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Minnesota for this role is Minneapolis, where the median reaches $60,890.

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 Minnesota by Experience

In Minnesota, an entry-level graphic designer earns around $36,860, while experienced professionals earn up to $85,360 per year. The cost of living index in Minnesota is 97% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$36,860
$-1,140 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$56,260
$-1,740 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$85,360
$-2,640 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Minnesota

Percentile MN Salary
10th Percentile $35,308
25th Percentile $44,038
Median (50th) $56,250
75th Percentile $72,362
90th Percentile $95,254

Graphic Designer Salary by City in Minnesota

The largest employment areas for graphic designers in Minnesota include Minneapolis, Saint Paul, Rochester, and Duluth. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Graphic Designer in Minnesota

Education

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

Key Skills

Adobe Creative SuiteTypographyLayout DesignColor TheoryBrandingUI Design

Job Outlook in Minnesota

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

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Frequently Asked Questions: Graphic Designer Salary in Minnesota

How much does a Graphic Designer make in Minnesota? ▼
The median graphic designer salary in Minnesota is $56,250 per year, which is 3% below the national median of $57,990. Salaries range from $35,308 (10th percentile) to $95,254 (90th percentile).
How much does a Graphic Designer make per hour in Minnesota? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $56,250, a graphic designer in Minnesota earns approximately $27 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Minnesota a good state for graphic designers? ▼
Minnesota ranks #20 out of 50 states for graphic designer pay. The cost of living index is 97% of the national average. Entry-level graphic designers earn $36,860, while senior professionals earn $85,360.
How does Minnesota compare to other states for graphic designer salary? ▼
The highest paying state for graphic designers is Hawaii at $98,583. Minnesota's median of $56,250 ranks #20 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Maine ($56,830) and Arizona ($56,250).
What is the entry-level graphic designer salary in Minnesota? ▼
An entry-level graphic designer in Minnesota earns approximately $36,860 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $56,260. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $85,360.
What city in Minnesota pays graphic designers the most? ▼
Minneapolis is the highest paying city in Minnesota for graphic designers, with a median salary of $60,890. Other cities include Saint Paul and Rochester.