Pay by Role
United States · Salary comparison

Graphic Designer vs Social Media Manager salary

In United States, a social media manager earns about 2% more than a graphic designer $73,100 vs $71,500 per year.

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

Creative
Graphic Designer
$71,500/yr
Monthly
$6,000
Hourly
$34
Range
$47,000$101,400
10-yr outlook
+3%
Pays more
Creative
Social Media Manager
$73,100/yr
Monthly
$6,100
Hourly
$35
Range
$46,800$105,300
10-yr outlook
+10%

Pay range, side by side

PercentileGraphic DesignerSocial Media Manager
Entry (10th)$47,000$46,800
25th$59,300$59,900
Median$71,500$73,100
75th$86,400$89,200
Senior (90th)$101,400$105,300

National United States figures in USD. 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 United States?
A social media manager earns more, at about $73,100 per year vs $71,500 for a graphic designer — roughly 2% ($1,600) more.
What is the salary range for these roles in United States?
A graphic designer typically earns $47,000–$101,400, while a social media manager earns $46,800–$105,300 per year.
How much do these jobs pay per month in United States?
On a monthly basis before tax, a graphic designer averages about $6,000 and a social media manager about $6,100.
How do entry-level salaries compare?
At the 10th percentile in United States, a graphic designer earns about $47,000 while a social media manager earns about $46,800 per year.
How do senior-level salaries compare?
At the 90th percentile in United States, a graphic designer earns about $101,400 while a social media manager earns about $105,300 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.