Cedar Rapids vs Dubuque: Graphic Designer Salary (2026)
Compare graphic designer salaries between Cedar Rapids, IA and Dubuque, IA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Cedar Rapids, IA | Dubuque, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $60,486▲ | $50,254 |
| Hourly Rate | $29.09▲ | $24.17 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $41,520▲ | $38,719 |
| 25th Percentile | $48,310▲ | $40,693 |
| 75th Percentile | $68,745▲ | $64,435 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $78,905▲ | $77,003 |
| Total Employed | 200▲ | 120 |
Verdict
Cedar Rapids, IA offers better overall compensation for graphic designers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Dubuque.
The salary gap between Cedar Rapids and Dubuque is $10,232 (20.36%). Cedar Rapids's median is -7.05% compared to the US national median of $65,075.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Cedar Rapids spans $37,385,Dubuque spans $38,284. Dubuque 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, Cedar Rapids ($67,990 effective) pays 18.15% more than Dubuque ($57,546 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Cedar Rapids if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($60,486/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($78,905)
- ✓Larger job market (200 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $67,990)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Choose Dubuque if…
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, graphic designer salaries in Cedar Rapids grew 28.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 14.5% growth in Dubuque over the same period.
Cedar Rapids, IA
$45,730 (2019) → $58,520 (2025)
Dubuque, IA
$42,460 (2019) → $48,620 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Cedar Rapids, IA
Dubuque, IA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays graphic designers more: Cedar Rapids or Dubuque?
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What do entry-level graphic designers earn in Cedar Rapids vs Dubuque?
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