Albuquerque vs Carlsbad: Graphic Designer Salary (2026)
Compare graphic designer salaries between Albuquerque, NM and Carlsbad, NM. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Albuquerque, NM | Carlsbad, NM |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $65,954▲ | $58,246 |
| Hourly Rate | $31.71▲ | $28.00 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $40,290▲ | $37,903 |
| 25th Percentile | $49,468▲ | $45,960 |
| 75th Percentile | $72,889 | $74,183▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $78,223 | $90,282▲ |
| Total Employed | 480▲ | 7 |
Verdict
Albuquerque, NM offers better overall compensation for graphic designers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Carlsbad.
The salary gap between Albuquerque and Carlsbad is $7,708 (13.23%). Albuquerque's median is +1.35% compared to the US national median of $65,075.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Albuquerque spans $37,933,Carlsbad spans $52,379. Carlsbad has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced graphic designers.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Albuquerque ($69,029 effective) pays 11.88% more than Carlsbad ($61,701 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Albuquerque if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($65,954/year)
- ✓Larger job market (480 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $69,029)
- ✓You prefer the New Mexico area and lifestyle
Choose Carlsbad if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($90,282)
- ✓You prefer the New Mexico area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, graphic designer salaries in Albuquerque grew 40.1% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 21.1% growth in Carlsbad over the same period.
Albuquerque, NM
$45,540 (2019) → $63,810 (2025)
Carlsbad, NM
$46,543 (2024) → $56,353 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Albuquerque, NM
Carlsbad, NM
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays graphic designers more: Albuquerque or Carlsbad?
What is the hourly rate difference between Albuquerque and Carlsbad?
Should I relocate from Albuquerque to Carlsbad as a graphic designer?
What do entry-level graphic designers earn in Albuquerque vs Carlsbad?
Written by Jordan Lee, MFA
Career Analyst
Jordan Lee has 10 years of experience in graphic design. They specialize in branding and visual identity. Their work includes freelance projects for small businesses.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 3.36% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Jordan Lee, MFA, a licensed graphic designer with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov