Jersey City vs Newark: Graphic Designer Salary (2026)
Compare graphic designer salaries between Jersey City, NJ and Newark, NJ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Jersey City, NJ | Newark, NJ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $83,350▲ | $82,065 |
| Hourly Rate | $40.07▲ | $39.45 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $48,796▲ | $47,597 |
| 25th Percentile | $62,205 | $64,544▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $106,687▲ | $105,043 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $129,192▲ | $127,200 |
| Total Employed | 42 | 61▲ |
Verdict
Jersey City, NJ offers better overall compensation for graphic designers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Newark.
The salary gap between Jersey City and Newark is $1,285 (1.57%). Jersey City's median is +28.08% compared to the US national median of $65,075.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Jersey City spans $80,396,Newark spans $79,603. Jersey City 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, Jersey City ($72,352 effective) pays 1.57% more than Newark ($71,237 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Jersey City if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($83,350/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($129,192)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $72,352)
- ✓You prefer the New Jersey area and lifestyle
Choose Newark if…
- ✓Larger job market (61 employed)
- ✓You prefer the New Jersey area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, graphic designer salaries in Jersey City grew -7.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -9.0% growth in Newark over the same period.
Jersey City, NJ
$86,898 (2024) → $80,640 (2025)
Newark, NJ
$87,220 (2024) → $79,397 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Jersey City, NJ
Newark, NJ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays graphic designers more: Jersey City or Newark?
What is the hourly rate difference between Jersey City and Newark?
Should I relocate from Jersey City to Newark as a graphic designer?
What do entry-level graphic designers earn in Jersey City vs Newark?
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