Austin vs University Park: Graphic Designer Salary (2026)
Compare graphic designer salaries between Austin, TX and University Park, TX. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Austin, TX | University Park, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $67,246▲ | $47,121 |
| Hourly Rate | $32.33▲ | $22.66 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $42,057▲ | $30,275 |
| 25th Percentile | $53,892▲ | $36,627 |
| 75th Percentile | $82,471▲ | $60,315 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $105,107▲ | $73,037 |
| Total Employed | 1,880▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Austin, TX offers better overall compensation for graphic designers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to University Park.
The salary gap between Austin and University Park is $20,125 (42.71%). Austin's median is +3.34% compared to the US national median of $65,075.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Austin spans $63,050,University Park spans $42,762. Austin 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, Austin ($68,572 effective) pays 39.70% more than University Park ($49,084 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Austin if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($67,246/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($105,107)
- ✓Larger job market (1,880 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $68,572)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Choose University Park if…
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, graphic designer salaries in Austin grew 22.7% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -19.2% growth in University Park over the same period.
Austin, TX
$53,040 (2019) → $65,060 (2025)
University Park, TX
$56,390 (2024) → $45,589 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Austin, TX
University Park, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays graphic designers more: Austin or University Park?
What is the hourly rate difference between Austin and University Park?
Should I relocate from Austin to University Park as a graphic designer?
What do entry-level graphic designers earn in Austin vs University Park?
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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