Graphic Designer Salary in Durham, North Carolina
The median graphic designer salary in Durham, NC is $55,091 per year, which is 5% below the national median and 3.3% above the North Carolina state average.
Graphic Designer Pay in Durham: What to Expect (2026)
Durham offers a median graphic designer salary of $55,091, which is $1,740 above the North Carolina state average of $53,351. Compared to the national median of $57,990, Durham pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Durham's cost of living is 95% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for graphic designers in Durham spans from $34,580 at the 10th percentile to $93,290 at the 90th percentile — a $58,710 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $36,100, while senior graphic designers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $83,600. With a population of 283,506, Durham is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Graphic Designer Salary in Durham by Experience
In Durham, an entry-level graphic designer earns around $36,100, while experienced professionals earn up to $83,600 per year. The local cost of living index is 95% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Durham, NC
| Percentile | Durham |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $34,580 |
| 25th Percentile | $43,130 |
| Median (50th) | $55,091 |
| 75th Percentile | $70,870 |
| 90th Percentile | $93,290 |
Graphic Designer Salary in Other North Carolina Cities
How to Become a Graphic Designer in Durham
Education
Most graphic designer positions require a bachelor's degree. Durham and the surrounding North Carolina area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, graphic designer employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Durham may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Graphic Designer Jobs in Durham
Browse open graphic designer positions in Durham, NC: