Atlanta vs Johns Creek: Graphic Designer Salary (2026)
Compare graphic designer salaries between Atlanta, GA and Johns Creek, GA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Atlanta, GA | Johns Creek, GA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $64,786▲ | $52,454 |
| Hourly Rate | $31.15▲ | $25.22 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $38,098▲ | $34,151 |
| 25th Percentile | $48,393▲ | $41,383 |
| 75th Percentile | $82,409▲ | $67,142 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $106,564▲ | $81,304 |
| Total Employed | 4,060▲ | 18 |
Verdict
Atlanta, GA offers better overall compensation for graphic designers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Johns Creek.
The salary gap between Atlanta and Johns Creek is $12,332 (23.51%). Atlanta's median is -0.44% compared to the US national median of $65,075.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Atlanta spans $68,466,Johns Creek spans $47,153. Atlanta has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Atlanta ($64,748 effective) pays 14.92% more than Johns Creek ($56,342 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Atlanta if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($64,786/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($106,564)
- ✓Larger job market (4,060 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $64,748)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Choose Johns Creek if…
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, graphic designer salaries in Atlanta grew 19.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -7.1% growth in Johns Creek over the same period.
Atlanta, GA
$52,300 (2019) → $62,680 (2025)
Johns Creek, GA
$54,600 (2024) → $50,749 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Atlanta, GA
Johns Creek, GA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays graphic designers more: Atlanta or Johns Creek?
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Should I relocate from Atlanta to Johns Creek as a graphic designer?
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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