Wellesley vs Worcester: Graphic Designer Salary (2026)
Compare graphic designer salaries between Wellesley, MA and Worcester, MA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Wellesley, MA | Worcester, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $65,063 | $69,055▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $31.28 | $33.20▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $42,820 | $47,814▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $51,491 | $58,398▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $83,280 | $87,753▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $100,847 | $101,644▲ |
| Total Employed | 6 | 310▲ |
Verdict
Worcester, MA offers better overall compensation for graphic designers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Wellesley.
The salary gap between Wellesley and Worcester is $3,992 (6.14%). Worcester's median is +6.12% compared to the US national median of $65,075.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Wellesley spans $58,027,Worcester spans $53,830. Wellesley 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, Worcester ($67,356 effective) pays 12.32% more than Wellesley ($59,966 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Wellesley if…
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Choose Worcester if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($69,055/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($101,644)
- ✓Larger job market (310 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $67,356)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, graphic designer salaries in Wellesley grew -18.6% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 18.6% growth in Worcester over the same period.
Wellesley, MA
$77,308 (2024) → $62,948 (2025)
Worcester, MA
$56,340 (2019) → $66,810 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Wellesley, MA
Worcester, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays graphic designers more: Wellesley or Worcester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Wellesley and Worcester?
Should I relocate from Wellesley to Worcester as a graphic designer?
What do entry-level graphic designers earn in Wellesley vs Worcester?
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