Lawrence vs Wichita: Graphic Designer Salary (2026)
Compare graphic designer salaries between Lawrence, KS and Wichita, KS. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Lawrence, KS | Wichita, KS |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $56,114▲ | $54,336 |
| Hourly Rate | $26.98▲ | $26.12 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $37,199 | $37,902▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $46,708▲ | $43,473 |
| 75th Percentile | $63,949 | $67,453▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $81,334 | $82,678▲ |
| Total Employed | 120 | 300▲ |
Verdict
Lawrence and Wichita are closely matched on overall graphic designer compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Lawrence and Wichita is $1,778 (3.27%). Lawrence's median is -13.77% 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,Wichita spans $44,776. Wichita 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, Lawrence ($62,181 effective) pays 1.79% more than Wichita ($61,089 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Lawrence if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($56,114/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $62,181)
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Choose Wichita if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($82,678)
- ✓Larger job market (300 employed)
- ✓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 19.7% growth in Wichita over the same period.
Lawrence, KS
$47,490 (2019) → $54,290 (2025)
Wichita, KS
$43,930 (2019) → $52,570 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Lawrence, KS
Wichita, KS
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays graphic designers more: Lawrence or Wichita?
What is the hourly rate difference between Lawrence and Wichita?
Should I relocate from Lawrence to Wichita as a graphic designer?
What do entry-level graphic designers earn in Lawrence vs Wichita?
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