Lawrence vs Lenexa: Graphic Designer Salary (2026)
Compare graphic designer salaries between Lawrence, KS and Lenexa, KS. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Lawrence, KS | Lenexa, KS |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $56,114 | $59,211▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $26.98 | $28.47▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $37,199▲ | $36,064 |
| 25th Percentile | $46,708▲ | $44,849 |
| 75th Percentile | $63,949 | $75,790▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $81,334 | $91,776▲ |
| Total Employed | 120▲ | 12 |
Verdict
Lenexa, KS offers better overall compensation for graphic designers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Lawrence.
The salary gap between Lawrence and Lenexa is $3,097 (5.52%). Lenexa's median is -9.01% compared to the US national median of $65,075.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Lawrence spans $44,135,Lenexa spans $55,712. Lenexa has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced graphic designers.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Lenexa ($65,139 effective) pays 4.76% more than Lawrence ($62,181 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Lawrence if…
- ✓Larger job market (120 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Choose Lenexa if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($59,211/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($91,776)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $65,139)
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, graphic designer salaries in Lawrence grew 14.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 21.1% growth in Lenexa over the same period.
Lawrence, KS
$47,490 (2019) → $54,290 (2025)
Lenexa, KS
$47,314 (2024) → $57,286 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Lawrence, KS
Lenexa, KS
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays graphic designers more: Lawrence or Lenexa?
What is the hourly rate difference between Lawrence and Lenexa?
Should I relocate from Lawrence to Lenexa as a graphic designer?
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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