Graphic Designer Salary in Alabama
Based on 2K+ workers in Alabama
Median Annual Salary (AL)
$51,070
$24.55/hr
vs National Average
$60,609
-15.7% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$33K – $89K
2K employed in Alabama
The median graphic designer salary in Alabama is $48,130 per year, according to current labor data. This represents a 16% decrease compared to the national average, reflecting regional economic differences. Alabama currently employs approximately 2,010 graphic designers, with salaries ranging from $30,230 to $84,550 annually.
Several factors influence graphic designer compensation in Alabama. Experience level remains the primary determinant, with senior designers earning substantially more than entry-level positions. Industry sector also plays a significant role, as designers in advertising, tech, and corporate environments typically earn higher wages than those in smaller markets. Geographic location within the state, company size, and specific skill sets in areas like UX/UI design further impact earning potential.
Salary Distribution — Graphic Designer in Alabama
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $33,050 |
| 25th percentile | $39,030 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $51,070 |
| 75th percentile | $67,430 |
| 90th percentile | $89,130 |
Top-Paying Industries for Graphic Designer (U.S.)
Which industries pay Graphic Designers the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Graphic Designers in Alabama tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Utilities | $100,350 | 130 |
| Government (excl. schools, hospitals & USPS) | $78,930 | 5K |
| Management of Companies and Enterprises | $78,530 | 9K |
| Finance and Insurance | $77,600 | 4K |
| Administrative and Support Services | $70,920 | 8K |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Graphic Designer in Alabama vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Alabama) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $45,380 |
| 2023 | $46,020 |
| 2024 | $48,130 |
| 2025 | $51,070 |
| 2026 (projected) | $54,134 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Alabama Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | $45,380 | $53,507 |
| 2023 | $46,020 | $54,331 |
| 2024 | $48,130 | $57,115 |
| 2025 | $51,070 | $60,609 |
| 2026 (projected) | $54,134 | $64,246 |
Graphic Designer Salary by Experience Level in Alabama
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $39,030 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $51,070 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $67,430 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $89,130 |
Graphic Designer Salary in Other States
Related Graphic Designer Salaries in Alabama
How other high-demand occupations in Alabama compare to Graphic Designer ($51,070 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Graphic Designer | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Art Director in AL | $77,220 | +51.2% | $37.13/hr |
| Commercial and Industrial Designer in AL | $63,640 | +24.6% | $30.60/hr |
| Producer and Director in AL | $63,340 | +24.0% | $30.45/hr |
| Interior Designer in AL | $61,050 | +19.5% | $29.35/hr |
| Audio and Video Technician in AL | $50,160 | -1.8% | $24.12/hr |
| Kindergarten Teacher in AL | $50,900 | -0.3% | $24.47/hr |
| Police Officer in AL | $51,270 | +0.4% | $24.65/hr |
| Web and Digital Interface Designer in AL | $51,860 | +1.5% | $24.93/hr |
| Truck Driver in AL | $52,120 | +2.1% | $25.06/hr |
| Computer User Support Specialist in AL | $49,630 | -2.8% | $23.86/hr |
| Securities Sales Agent in AL | $49,230 | -3.6% | $23.67/hr |
| Biochemist and Biophysicist in AL | $48,510 | -5.0% | $23.32/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do graphic designers make in Alabama?
- The median salary for graphic designers in Alabama is $48,130 per year, or $23 per hour. This is approximately 15.7% lower than the national average for this position.
What is the salary range for graphic designers in Alabama?
- Graphic designer salaries in Alabama range from $30,230 at the lower end to $84,550 at the higher end, depending on experience, skills, and employer.
Is graphic design a good paying job in Alabama?
- While the median salary of $48,130 annually provides a stable income, graphic designers in Alabama earn about 15.7% less than the national average, so compensation may be limited compared to other states.
How many graphic designers are employed in Alabama?
- There are currently 2,010 graphic designers employed in Alabama, representing the total workforce in this field across the state.