Pay by Role
New Zealand · Salary comparison

Graphic Designer vs Social Media Manager salary

In New Zealand, a social media manager earns about 1% more than a graphic designer $67,364 vs $66,788 per year.

Showing amounts in USD (USD default; source data is NZD). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies

Creative
Graphic Designer
$66,788/yr
Monthly
$5,585
Hourly
$32
Range
$43,931$94,713
10-yr outlook
+3%
Pays more
Creative
Social Media Manager
$67,364/yr
Monthly
$5,642
Hourly
$32
Range
$43,125$97,016
10-yr outlook
+10%

Pay range, side by side

PercentileGraphic DesignerSocial Media Manager
Entry (10th)$43,931$43,125
25th$55,388$55,216
Median$66,788$67,364
75th$80,722$82,161
Senior (90th)$94,713$97,016

National New Zealand figures in NZD. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.

More Creative comparisons

Frequently asked questions

Does a graphic designer or social media manager earn more in New Zealand?
A social media manager earns more, at about $117,000 per year vs $116,000 for a graphic designer — roughly 1% ($1,000) more.
What is the salary range for these roles in New Zealand?
A graphic designer typically earns $76,300–$164,500, while a social media manager earns $74,900–$168,500 per year.
How much do these jobs pay per month in New Zealand?
On a monthly basis before tax, a graphic designer averages about $9,700 and a social media manager about $9,800.
How do entry-level salaries compare?
At the 10th percentile in New Zealand, a graphic designer earns about $76,300 while a social media manager earns about $74,900 per year.
How do senior-level salaries compare?
At the 90th percentile in New Zealand, a graphic designer earns about $164,500 while a social media manager earns about $168,500 per year.
Are graphic designer and social media manager similar careers?
Both roles sit in the Creative category on Pay by Role, which is why we compare them head-to-head. Day-to-day work still differs — review each job page for skills and outlook.