Los Angeles vs Stockton: Graphic Designer Salary (2026)
Compare graphic designer salaries between Los Angeles, CA and Stockton, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Los Angeles, CA | Stockton, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $74,833▲ | $63,081 |
| Hourly Rate | $35.98▲ | $30.33 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $47,029▲ | $44,114 |
| 25th Percentile | $55,597▲ | $49,458 |
| 75th Percentile | $98,647▲ | $82,636 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $127,743▲ | $111,825 |
| Total Employed | 13,810▲ | 150 |
Verdict
Los Angeles, CA offers better overall compensation for graphic designers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Stockton.
The salary gap between Los Angeles and Stockton is $11,752 (18.63%). Los Angeles's median is +15.00% compared to the US national median of $65,075.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Los Angeles spans $80,714,Stockton spans $67,711. Los Angeles 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, Los Angeles ($65,894 effective) pays 9.78% more than Stockton ($60,026 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Los Angeles if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($74,833/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($127,743)
- ✓Larger job market (13,810 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $65,894)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose Stockton if…
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, graphic designer salaries in Los Angeles grew 21.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 39.4% growth in Stockton over the same period.
Los Angeles, CA
$59,390 (2019) → $72,400 (2025)
Stockton, CA
$43,770 (2019) → $61,030 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Los Angeles, CA
Stockton, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays graphic designers more: Los Angeles or Stockton?
What is the hourly rate difference between Los Angeles and Stockton?
Should I relocate from Los Angeles to Stockton as a graphic designer?
What do entry-level graphic designers earn in Los Angeles vs Stockton?
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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