Menomonee Falls vs Milwaukee: Graphic Designer Salary (2026)
Compare graphic designer salaries between Menomonee Falls, WI and Milwaukee, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Menomonee Falls, WI | Milwaukee, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $60,362 | $63,856▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $29.02 | $30.70▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $38,134 | $45,644▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $46,782 | $50,791▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $77,264 | $78,016▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $93,561▲ | $90,202 |
| Total Employed | 10 | 1,200▲ |
Verdict
Milwaukee, WI offers better overall compensation for graphic designers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Menomonee Falls.
The salary gap between Menomonee Falls and Milwaukee is $3,494 (5.79%). Milwaukee's median is -1.87% compared to the US national median of $65,075.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Menomonee Falls spans $55,427,Milwaukee spans $44,558. Menomonee Falls 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, Milwaukee ($65,874 effective) pays 1.93% more than Menomonee Falls ($64,627 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Menomonee Falls if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($93,561)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Choose Milwaukee if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($63,856/year)
- ✓Larger job market (1,200 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $65,874)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, graphic designer salaries in Menomonee Falls grew 15.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 22.6% growth in Milwaukee over the same period.
Menomonee Falls, WI
$50,624 (2024) → $58,400 (2025)
Milwaukee, WI
$50,380 (2019) → $61,780 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Menomonee Falls, WI
Milwaukee, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays graphic designers more: Menomonee Falls or Milwaukee?
What is the hourly rate difference between Menomonee Falls and Milwaukee?
Should I relocate from Menomonee Falls to Milwaukee as a graphic designer?
What do entry-level graphic designers earn in Menomonee Falls vs Milwaukee?
Related Comparisons
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