Gulfport vs Meridian: Graphic Designer Salary (2026)
Compare graphic designer salaries between Gulfport, MS and Meridian, MS. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Gulfport, MS | Meridian, MS |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $49,489 | $52,870▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $23.79 | $25.42▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $36,962▲ | $34,558 |
| 25th Percentile | $44,776▲ | $41,707 |
| 75th Percentile | $66,429 | $67,365▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $96,786▲ | $81,948 |
| Total Employed | 90▲ | 7 |
Verdict
Gulfport and Meridian are closely matched on overall graphic designer compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Gulfport and Meridian is $3,381 (6.83%). Meridian's median is -18.76% compared to the US national median of $65,075.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Gulfport spans $59,824,Meridian spans $47,390. Gulfport 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, Meridian ($61,692 effective) pays 12.20% more than Gulfport ($54,984 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Gulfport if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($96,786)
- ✓Larger job market (90 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Mississippi area and lifestyle
Choose Meridian if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($52,870/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $61,692)
- ✓You prefer the Mississippi area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, graphic designer salaries in Gulfport grew 59.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 49.9% growth in Meridian over the same period.
Gulfport, MS
$29,940 (2019) → $47,880 (2025)
Meridian, MS
$34,122 (2024) → $51,151 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Gulfport, MS
Meridian, MS
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays graphic designers more: Gulfport or Meridian?
What is the hourly rate difference between Gulfport and Meridian?
Should I relocate from Gulfport to Meridian as a graphic designer?
What do entry-level graphic designers earn in Gulfport vs Meridian?
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