Cape Girardeau vs Springfield: Graphic Designer Salary (2026)
Compare graphic designer salaries between Cape Girardeau, MO and Springfield, MO. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Cape Girardeau, MO | Springfield, MO |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $52,900▲ | $49,396 |
| Hourly Rate | $25.44▲ | $23.75 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $36,383 | $37,096▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $43,649▲ | $42,998 |
| 75th Percentile | $62,212 | $63,938▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $75,380 | $81,520▲ |
| Total Employed | 40 | 310▲ |
Verdict
Cape Girardeau and Springfield are closely matched on overall graphic designer compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Cape Girardeau and Springfield is $3,504 (7.09%). Cape Girardeau's median is -18.71% compared to the US national median of $65,075.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Cape Girardeau spans $38,997,Springfield spans $44,424. Springfield 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, Cape Girardeau ($61,456 effective) pays 10.21% more than Springfield ($55,761 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Cape Girardeau if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($52,900/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $61,456)
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Choose Springfield if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($81,520)
- ✓Larger job market (310 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, graphic designer salaries in Cape Girardeau grew 38.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 32.0% growth in Springfield over the same period.
Cape Girardeau, MO
$36,850 (2019) → $51,180 (2025)
Springfield, MO
$36,210 (2019) → $47,790 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Cape Girardeau, MO
Springfield, MO
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays graphic designers more: Cape Girardeau or Springfield?
What is the hourly rate difference between Cape Girardeau and Springfield?
Should I relocate from Cape Girardeau to Springfield as a graphic designer?
What do entry-level graphic designers earn in Cape Girardeau vs Springfield?
Related Comparisons
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