Milwaukee vs South Milwaukee: Graphic Designer Salary (2026)
Compare graphic designer salaries between Milwaukee, WI and South Milwaukee, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Milwaukee, WI | South Milwaukee, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $63,856▲ | $58,191 |
| Hourly Rate | $30.70▲ | $27.98 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $45,644▲ | $37,665 |
| 25th Percentile | $50,791▲ | $45,433 |
| 75th Percentile | $78,016▲ | $71,819 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $90,202▲ | $90,195 |
| Total Employed | 1,200▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Milwaukee, WI offers better overall compensation for graphic designers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to South Milwaukee.
The salary gap between Milwaukee and South Milwaukee is $5,665 (9.74%). 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 Milwaukee spans $44,558,South Milwaukee spans $52,530. South Milwaukee 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, Milwaukee ($65,874 effective) pays 5.73% more than South Milwaukee ($62,303 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Milwaukee if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($63,856/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($90,202)
- ✓Larger job market (1,200 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $65,874)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Choose South Milwaukee if…
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, graphic designer salaries in Milwaukee grew 22.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 15.4% growth in South Milwaukee over the same period.
Milwaukee, WI
$50,380 (2019) → $61,780 (2025)
South Milwaukee, WI
$48,804 (2024) → $56,299 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Milwaukee, WI
South Milwaukee, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays graphic designers more: Milwaukee or South Milwaukee?
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Should I relocate from Milwaukee to South Milwaukee 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