Cottage Grove vs Duluth: Graphic Designer Salary (2026)
Compare graphic designer salaries between Cottage Grove, MN and Duluth, MN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Cottage Grove, MN | Duluth, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $59,514 | $59,907▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $28.61 | $28.80▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $37,997▲ | $37,303 |
| 25th Percentile | $46,235▲ | $44,238 |
| 75th Percentile | $75,093▲ | $68,652 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $92,246▲ | $82,709 |
| Total Employed | 8 | 130▲ |
Verdict
Duluth, MN offers better overall compensation for graphic designers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Cottage Grove.
The salary gap between Cottage Grove and Duluth is $393 (0.66%). Duluth's median is -7.94% compared to the US national median of $65,075.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Cottage Grove spans $54,249,Duluth spans $45,406. Cottage Grove 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, Duluth ($67,487 effective) pays 11.70% more than Cottage Grove ($60,420 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Cottage Grove if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($92,246)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Choose Duluth if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($59,907/year)
- ✓Larger job market (130 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $67,487)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, graphic designer salaries in Cottage Grove grew -8.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 58.9% growth in Duluth over the same period.
Cottage Grove, MN
$63,190 (2024) → $57,579 (2025)
Duluth, MN
$36,480 (2019) → $57,960 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Cottage Grove, MN
Duluth, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays graphic designers more: Cottage Grove or Duluth?
What is the hourly rate difference between Cottage Grove and Duluth?
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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