Fairfield vs New Haven: Graphic Designer Salary (2026)
Compare graphic designer salaries between Fairfield, CT and New Haven, CT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Fairfield, CT | New Haven, CT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $69,467 | $70,440▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $33.40 | $33.86▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $45,814 | $48,321▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $55,299 | $58,006▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $88,551▲ | $84,259 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $107,674▲ | $106,637 |
| Total Employed | 9 | 260▲ |
Verdict
New Haven, CT offers better overall compensation for graphic designers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Fairfield.
The salary gap between Fairfield and New Haven is $973 (1.40%). New Haven's median is +8.24% compared to the US national median of $65,075.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Fairfield spans $61,860,New Haven spans $58,316. Fairfield 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, New Haven ($67,369 effective) pays 4.64% more than Fairfield ($64,381 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Fairfield if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($107,674)
- ✓You prefer the Connecticut area and lifestyle
Choose New Haven if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($70,440/year)
- ✓Larger job market (260 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $67,369)
- ✓You prefer the Connecticut area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, graphic designer salaries in Fairfield grew -6.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 23.8% growth in New Haven over the same period.
Fairfield, CT
$72,147 (2024) → $67,209 (2025)
New Haven, CT
$55,050 (2019) → $68,150 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Fairfield, CT
New Haven, CT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays graphic designers more: Fairfield or New Haven?
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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