Columbus vs Jackson: Graphic Designer Salary (2026)
Compare graphic designer salaries between Columbus, MS and Jackson, MS. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbus, MS | Jackson, MS |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $52,443▲ | $48,900 |
| Hourly Rate | $25.21▲ | $23.51 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $33,024 | $36,703▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $43,521▲ | $41,334 |
| 75th Percentile | $65,286▲ | $64,931 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $80,237 | $81,386▲ |
| Total Employed | 6 | 270▲ |
Verdict
Columbus and Jackson are closely matched on overall graphic designer compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Columbus and Jackson is $3,543 (7.25%). Columbus's median is -19.41% compared to the US national median of $65,075.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Columbus spans $47,213,Jackson spans $44,683. Columbus 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, Columbus ($61,194 effective) pays 11.44% more than Jackson ($54,914 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Columbus if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($52,443/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $61,194)
- ✓You prefer the Mississippi area and lifestyle
Choose Jackson if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($81,386)
- ✓Larger job market (270 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Mississippi area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, graphic designer salaries in Columbus grew 49.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 12.6% growth in Jackson over the same period.
Columbus, MS
$33,847 (2024) → $50,738 (2025)
Jackson, MS
$42,030 (2019) → $47,310 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbus, MS
Jackson, MS
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays graphic designers more: Columbus or Jackson?
What is the hourly rate difference between Columbus and Jackson?
Should I relocate from Columbus to Jackson as a graphic designer?
What do entry-level graphic designers earn in Columbus vs Jackson?
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