In Sacramento, CA, Graphic Designers earn a median of $67,290 a year — about 4% above the U.S. median of $64,700. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #10.
What that pay is worth in Sacramento
Local prices run 107 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $70,320 salary buys less than it looks — about $65,923 in national-average buying power.
Can Graphic Designers afford a home in Sacramento?
A typical Sacramento home runs about $484,600 — 6.9 times the average Graphic Designer salary, a stretch against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,694/mo takes roughly 29% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Graphic Designer pay ladder in Sacramento
Entry-level (10th percentile) Graphic Designers earn about $39,330; the top 10% reach $102,160 — a $62,830 spread, wide for this field. Most of that gap comes down to experience, employer, and how hard you negotiate.
The Graphic Designer job market in Sacramento
Sacramento employs roughly 1,070 Graphic Designers. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Sacramento with other cities
See the full Graphic Designer salary by city ranking to weigh Sacramento against the other metros on both pay and cost-adjusted value, or use the cost-of-living calculator to compare any two cities directly.
Frequently asked questions
How much do Graphic Designers make in Sacramento?
The average Graphic Designer in Sacramento, CA earns about $70,320 per year, 8.7% above the national average of $64,700.
What is the take-home pay for Graphic Designers in Sacramento after taxes?
After federal and CA taxes, this $70,320 salary is worth about $55,733 a year - roughly $4,644 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 21%.
What do the highest-paid Graphic Designers earn in Sacramento?
The top 10% of Graphic Designers in Sacramento earn about $102,160 a year, versus about $39,330 for the bottom 10%.
Can Graphic Designers afford a home in Sacramento?
A typical Sacramento home runs about $484,600 - roughly 6.9x this salary, a stretch by the 3x rule, so budgeting discipline matters.