Champaign vs Chicago: Graphic Designer Salary (2026)
Compare graphic designer salaries between Champaign, IL and Chicago, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Champaign, IL | Chicago, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $62,223 | $68,724▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $29.91 | $33.04▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $40,869 | $45,220▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $50,378 | $53,778▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $67,752 | $86,399▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $82,006 | $104,001▲ |
| Total Employed | 150 | 6,590▲ |
Verdict
Chicago, IL offers better overall compensation for graphic designers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Champaign.
The salary gap between Champaign and Chicago is $6,501 (10.45%). Chicago's median is +5.61% compared to the US national median of $65,075.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Champaign spans $41,137,Chicago spans $58,781. Chicago 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, Champaign ($67,120 effective) pays 1.18% more than Chicago ($66,339 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Champaign if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $67,120)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Chicago if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($68,724/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($104,001)
- ✓Larger job market (6,590 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, graphic designer salaries in Champaign grew 40.2% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 15.5% growth in Chicago over the same period.
Champaign, IL
$42,940 (2019) → $60,200 (2025)
Chicago, IL
$57,550 (2019) → $66,490 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Champaign, IL
Chicago, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
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Should I relocate from Champaign to Chicago 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