New Bedford vs Springfield: Graphic Designer Salary (2026)
Compare graphic designer salaries between New Bedford, MA and Springfield, MA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | New Bedford, MA | Springfield, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $68,997▲ | $65,902 |
| Hourly Rate | $33.17▲ | $31.69 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $45,140 | $46,026▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $54,731▲ | $53,944 |
| 75th Percentile | $88,316▲ | $83,897 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $106,946▲ | $99,339 |
| Total Employed | 24 | 150▲ |
Verdict
New Bedford, MA offers better overall compensation for graphic designers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Springfield.
The salary gap between New Bedford and Springfield is $3,095 (4.70%). New Bedford's median is +6.03% compared to the US national median of $65,075.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in New Bedford spans $61,806,Springfield spans $53,313. New Bedford 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, Springfield ($68,604 effective) pays 7.88% more than New Bedford ($63,592 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose New Bedford if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($68,997/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($106,946)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Choose Springfield if…
- ✓Larger job market (150 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $68,604)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, graphic designer salaries in New Bedford grew 49.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 17.9% growth in Springfield over the same period.
New Bedford, MA
$44,790 (2019) → $66,754 (2025)
Springfield, MA
$54,070 (2019) → $63,760 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
New Bedford, MA
Springfield, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays graphic designers more: New Bedford or Springfield?
What is the hourly rate difference between New Bedford and Springfield?
Should I relocate from New Bedford to Springfield as a graphic designer?
What do entry-level graphic designers earn in New Bedford vs Springfield?
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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