Sioux Falls vs Spearfish: Graphic Designer Salary (2026)
Compare graphic designer salaries between Sioux Falls, SD and Spearfish, SD. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Sioux Falls, SD | Spearfish, SD |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $51,711 | $57,904▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $24.86 | $27.83▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $38,140▲ | $36,605 |
| 25th Percentile | $44,486 | $48,156▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $62,057 | $72,096▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $67,959 | $88,890▲ |
| Total Employed | 200▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Spearfish, SD offers better overall compensation for graphic designers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Sioux Falls.
The salary gap between Sioux Falls and Spearfish is $6,193 (11.98%). Spearfish's median is -11.02% compared to the US national median of $65,075.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Sioux Falls spans $29,819,Spearfish spans $52,285. Spearfish 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, Spearfish ($62,397 effective) pays 9.36% more than Sioux Falls ($57,057 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Sioux Falls if…
- ✓Larger job market (200 employed)
- ✓You prefer the South Dakota area and lifestyle
Choose Spearfish if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($57,904/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($88,890)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $62,397)
- ✓You prefer the South Dakota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, graphic designer salaries in Sioux Falls grew 28.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 31.2% growth in Spearfish over the same period.
Sioux Falls, SD
$38,910 (2019) → $50,030 (2025)
Spearfish, SD
$42,710 (2024) → $56,022 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Sioux Falls, SD
Spearfish, SD
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays graphic designers more: Sioux Falls or Spearfish?
What is the hourly rate difference between Sioux Falls and Spearfish?
Should I relocate from Sioux Falls to Spearfish as a graphic designer?
What do entry-level graphic designers earn in Sioux Falls vs Spearfish?
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