Manchester vs Salem: Graphic Designer Salary (2026)
Compare graphic designer salaries between Manchester, NH and Salem, NH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Manchester, NH | Salem, NH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $61,024 | $68,140▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $29.33 | $32.75▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $46,739▲ | $42,148 |
| 25th Percentile | $52,879▲ | $51,999 |
| 75th Percentile | $74,812 | $86,576▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $87,846 | $105,617▲ |
| Total Employed | 200▲ | 8 |
Verdict
Salem, NH offers better overall compensation for graphic designers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Manchester.
The salary gap between Manchester and Salem is $7,116 (11.66%). Salem's median is +4.71% compared to the US national median of $65,075.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Manchester spans $41,107,Salem spans $63,469. Salem 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, Salem ($63,504 effective) pays 9.95% more than Manchester ($57,757 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Manchester if…
- ✓Larger job market (200 employed)
- ✓You prefer the New Hampshire area and lifestyle
Choose Salem if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($68,140/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($105,617)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $63,504)
- ✓You prefer the New Hampshire area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, graphic designer salaries in Manchester grew 11.1% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 8.6% growth in Salem over the same period.
Manchester, NH
$53,120 (2019) → $59,040 (2025)
Salem, NH
$60,732 (2024) → $65,925 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Manchester, NH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays graphic designers more: Manchester or Salem?
What is the hourly rate difference between Manchester and Salem?
Should I relocate from Manchester to Salem as a graphic designer?
What do entry-level graphic designers earn in Manchester vs Salem?
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