Graphic Designer Salary in Massachusetts, United States
Massachusetts offers graphic designers a median salary of $58,000 a year. Boston has a concentration of advertising firms and technology startups. Housing costs and taxes reduce earnings.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$42,000 to $51,000
Average (per year)
$46,500
Graduates work in retail marketing or local agencies and earn entry-level wages.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$51,500 to $63,500
Average (per year)
$58,000
Mid-career designers support tech firms or biotech startups.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$64,000 to $77,000
Average (per year)
$70,500
Senior staff lead branding for regional companies.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$78,000+
Veterans with extensive portfolios consult for employers or manage creative teams.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$20 - $28
per hour
Mid-level
$29 - $40
per hour
Senior
$41 - $55
per hour
Nationally, graphic designers earn around $55,000 on average. Massachusetts therefore sits slightly above the U.S. The median salary reflects the region's high‑tech and academic hubs.