Graphic Designer Salary in Raleigh
2026 compensation data for Graphic Designer positions in Raleigh, NC. Ranges from $39,000 (entry-level) to $113,000 (senior). Median: $67,000.
Median (Mid)
$67,000
$32.21/hr
vs National
+0%
US: $67,000
COL Index
102
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$113,000
Top of band
Salary Ranges by Experience Level
Detailed Compensation Breakdown
| Level | Annual Min | Annual Median | Annual Max | Hourly (Median) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–2 yrs) | $39,000 | $47,000 | $57,000 | $22.6/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $54,000 | $67,000 | $80,000 | $32.21/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $76,000 | $93,000 | $113,000 | $44.71/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in Raleigh
A mid-level graphic designer earning $67,000 in Raleigh has the same buying power as $66,000 in an average US city, after adjusting for the local cost of living (COL index 102).
Cost of living comparisons use a base of 100 (US national average). Higher index = higher housing, transport, and consumer prices.
About Graphic Designer Salaries in Raleigh
The median graphic designer salary in Raleigh, NC is $67,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 0% above the national median. With a cost of living index of 102 (national average = 100), Raleigh offers an affordable cost of living, making these salaries stretch further.
Entry-level graphic designers in Raleigh can expect to earn between $39,000 and $57,000 (about $22.6/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $113,000 ($113K annually, or about $54.33/hour).
These figures represent base salary only and do not include bonuses, equity, or benefits, which can add 20–50% to total compensation — especially at technology companies and in competitive markets like Raleigh.
Frequently Asked Questions: Graphic Designer Salary in Raleigh
What is the average Graphic Designer salary in Raleigh?+
The average Graphic Designer salary in Raleigh is $67,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $47,000 and senior-level pay reaches $93,000.
How much does an entry-level graphic designer make in Raleigh?+
Entry-level graphic designers in Raleigh earn between $39,000 and $57,000, with a median of $47,000 per year (about $22.6/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a Graphic Designer in Raleigh?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a Graphic Designer in Raleigh earns roughly $22.6/hour at entry-level, $32.21/hour at mid-level, and $44.71/hour at senior-level.
Is the Graphic Designer salary in Raleigh higher than the US average?+
Yes — Graphic Designer salaries in Raleigh are about 0% higher than the US national median of $67,000.
Does this include bonuses or equity?+
No — these figures are base salary only. Total compensation (base + bonus + equity + benefits) is typically 20–50% higher, and can be 2–3x at top technology and finance employers.
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