Graphic Designer Salary in New Hampshire

New Hampshire is a place full of outdoor beauty, tight-knit communities and a relaxed environment for professionals. It’s one of the greatest places to live in the U.S. If you’re thinking of becoming a graphic designer in The Granite State, it may be a great choice for you to make. Yet, before you decide to live there, you may want to learn more about a graphic designer’s salary in New Hampshire.

What Is the Market Like for Graphic Designers in New Hampshire?

You may have noticed how active the job market has become since the COVID-19 pandemic. Hundreds of thousands of job openings have entered the market. Yet, many creatives are finding it challenging to stand out. Why? Many jobs you see today are remote, and applicants from all over the U.S. are competing for the same position.

Yet, you can still increase your chances of finding a job if you decide to work in an office. However, knowing which states are in high demand for graphic designers is helpful. Considering New Hampshire, the job market is currently at a standstill. 

The number of graphic design job openings is few and far between. If you look at job boards like Indeed, you’ll find there are only approximately 20 job opportunities available. You can find the same amount of listings on other sites like Glassdoor and SimplyHired.

Yet, because job advertisements are low on major job boards, there are still plenty of ways to find them. If it’s worth it to you to work as a graphic designer in New Hampshire, then it’s important to understand what employers typically pay them. According to ZipRecruiter’s data, many employment opportunities available today are listed at around $18.03 per hour. 

If this wage sounds attractive to you but you want to make the most of it, consider the top-paying industries for graphic designers. According to Zippia, these are the top-paying industries:

• Technology: $59,067
• Manufacturing: $54,488
• Finance: $54,139
• Media: $52,206
• Education: $51,763
• Retail: $50,927

Graphic designers looking to make a higher salary in New Hampshire should consider specializing in the tech industry. While many sectors exist, tech companies are willing to pay graphic designers a more competitive salary.

What Is the Graphic Designer Salary in New Hampshire?

Now that you have a slight understanding of what employers are paying graphic designers in New Hampshire, it’s essential to know the average salary. Knowing between the average wage and what employers currently pay gives you an idea of what to ask for in salary negotiations. 

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, $64,020 is the average salary of graphic designers in New Hampshire. Graphic designers in this state can earn more than in other parts of the U.S., as the national average is $50,710 annually.

The average salary for graphic designers in New Hampshire may be higher than most states. Yet, you should also consider other factors to ensure you’re making a comfortable living. 

According to MERIC (Missouri Economic Research and Information Center), New Hampshire’s cost of living index is 114.6 and ranks 42 out of the 50 states. Therefore, New Hampshire’s cost of living is on the higher end of the spectrum. In fact, the total cost of living adds up to $50,761 each year. However, making $64,000 a year means you can live a relaxing lifestyle if you manage your finances well.

Yet, just because that’s the state’s average annual income, other factors that affect how much you make come into play. For example, your salary depends on the city you live in. Here are the top-paying cities to keep in mind:

• Lebanon, NH: $60,564
• Portsmouth, NH: $58,238
• Manchester, NH: $57,882
• Salem, NH: $56,948
• Dover, NH: $56,165
• Weare, NH: $55,555
• Keene, NH: $54,938
• Laconia, NH: $54,547
• Nottingham, NH: $54,101
• Concord, NH: $53,144

Lebanon is the highest-paying city in New Hampshire, but you must still consider the cost of living and your desired salary. 

The Career Outlook for Graphic Designers in New Hampshire?

Before you decide to make a living as a graphic designer in New Hampshire, another thing to bear in mind is the future demand. The higher the market for graphic designers, the more opportunities this state presents. That’s why thinking about what the future may bring is crucial.

In New Hampshire, there were 950 employees total working as graphic designers in 2020. The projected employment in 2030 will grow to only 960 employees. That’s a 1% growth rate, which is 2% lower than the national average. 

Considering this data, the demand for graphic designers will stay practically the same. Therefore, it may be more challenging for new designers to grow into their role if the market is at a halt. Yet, you shouldn’t let that deter you from becoming a graphic designer and living in New Hampshire. 

You have room for opportunities to thrive in your career. However, achieving your career goals requires an open mind and determination. For instance, joining a professional association is a great way to get to know more people within your field. Once you expand your network across New Hampshire, expect at least one or two opportunities to cross your path. 

For instance, you could join as a new member of the NH Creative Club. The NH Creative Club is where creatives like graphic designers meet to network and participate in workshops. It’s a great way to connect with others and learn of any work opportunities in your area.

Tips for Earning a Better Salary as a Graphic Designer in New Hampshire

Graphic design is a field full of ways for you to grow. The possibilities are endless. However, your salary is an important aspect of your career, and you want to be sure it’s at your desired level. With that in mind, here are some of the top ways to earn a higher salary.

1. Get Certified in Graphic Design Software

Graphic designers have various tools they use to work on their projects. For instance, you might use Adobe Illustrator to create vector graphics like company logos. Specializing in this software and getting certified shows your value to potential employers. Becoming certified means you’re an expert in this software, and employers look for certifications on candidates’ resumes. Once you have a certificate in software, you make it easier for yourself to get a higher-paying job.

2. Create a Diverse Portfolio of Your Designs

A portfolio is an excellent way to show how competent you are for a job. Potential employers that view it can get a feel of your abilities. However, it’s important to ensure you work on various projects. That way, you can tailor your portfolio to the job you want. For instance, you might work on projects that align with brands in creative industries. In addition to your portfolio, you might create one that fits the needs of a high-end brand. 

3. Take Up Freelance Opportunities

If you want to take your graphic design work to the next level, why not try freelancing? Freelancing gives you the freedom and flexibility to work on dream projects while making money. You can pick up clients from anywhere when you work online and receive the payment upfront before you start the work. 

Should You Earn a Salary as a Graphic Designer in New Hampshire?

Now that you know what a graphic designer’s salary is in New Hampshire, you may wonder if living and working there is a good idea. The downfall of becoming a graphic designer in New Hampshire is the cost of living and slow demand growth for these professionals. However, companies in New Hampshire pay their graphic designers a decent wage. Although the housing costs are high, New Hampshire doesn’t tax your income, which could offset the higher cost of living.