Graphic Designer Jobs in Minneapolis, MN

Minneapolis, Minnesota$65,625 USD/yearFull-timeTech Hub
Updated: April 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About Graphic Designer Jobs in Minneapolis

Looking for a Graphic Designer job in Minneapolis? You're in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a Graphic Designer in Minneapolis, MN.

We'll show you what you can expect to earn. We'll also share which companies are hiring. Plus, you'll learn about the cost of living and how to get started in your job search.

Minneapolis has a strong job market for Graphic Designers. Many employers are actively looking for talent. Read on to learn how to land your next role.

Graphic Designer Salary in Minneapolis

Entry Level
$40,163
Median
$65,625
Senior Level
$96,600

Graphic Designer salaries in Minneapolis are in line with national averages, offering competitive compensation for the region.

Purchasing power in Minneapolis is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

Adobe Creative SuiteTypographyLayout DesignBrand IdentityVisual Communication

Graphic Designer Job Market in Minneapolis

Minneapolis, MN is a major regional employment hub for Graphic Designer professionals. Though smaller than coastal metros, Minneapolis offers focused opportunities and often better work-life balance. While Healthcare leads the local economy, there's growing demand for Graphic Designer roles across various sectors. The market for Graphic Designer positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Graphic Designers in Minneapolis

State of MinnesotaMetro TransitXcel EnergyUniversity of Minnesota

Major employers hiring Graphic Designers in Minneapolis include State of Minnesota, Metro Transit, Xcel Energy, University of Minnesota. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Graphic Designers in Minneapolis

Living in Minneapolis as a Graphic Designer means navigating a cost of living that's slightly above the national average. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,600/month. Housing costs are manageable for Graphic Designer salaries in the area. Suburban apartments average $1,200/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

105
Cost Index (100=avg)
$1.6K
Avg Rent/Month
Yes
Tech Hub
Tier 2
Market Size

Commuting as a Graphic Designer in Minneapolis

Minneapolis Metro light rail, bus system, and excellent bike infrastructure. The average commute time is 24 minutes. Blue Line connects downtown to MSP Airport and Mall of America. Excellent skyway system for winter commuting downtown.

Best neighborhoods for Graphic Designers in Minneapolis: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Graphic Designer professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in Minnesota

Minnesota has relatively high state income taxes. A Graphic Designer earning $65,625 might pay approximately $5,250 in state income tax. However, Minnesota's strong job market and quality of life often offset the higher tax burden.

Career Outlook for Graphic Designers

The job outlook for Graphic Designers in Minneapolis is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. Minneapolis's growing economy creates new positions regularly, often with less competition than coastal tech hubs. In-demand skills include Adobe Creative Suite, Typography, Layout Design, Brand Identity.

Relocating to Minneapolis

Minnesota has higher state income taxes. Factor this into salary negotiations, as gross salary comparisons can be misleading. Winters can be harsh. Budget for winter clothing, and many employers understand weather-related delays during snow events.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Graphic Designer salary in Minneapolis, MN?

The average Graphic Designer salary in Minneapolis, MN is $65,625 per year. Entry-level Graphic Designers typically start around $40,163, while experienced professionals can earn $96,600 or more. The national average for Graphic Designer roles is $62,500.

How many Graphic Designer jobs are available in Minneapolis?

Minneapolis has a strong job market with regular openings for Graphic Designer professionals. Major employers hiring Graphic Designers include State of Minnesota, Metro Transit, Xcel Energy, University of Minnesota. The Healthcare and Finance sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Minneapolis a good city for Graphic Designers?

Minneapolis is an excellent choice for Graphic Designers. As a major metro area, it offers abundant opportunities and competitive salaries. The cost of living is reasonable compared to major coastal cities. The city's healthcare industry creates strong demand for creative & design professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Graphic Designers in Minneapolis?

Top skills for Graphic Designers in Minneapolis include Adobe Creative Suite, Typography, Layout Design, Brand Identity, Visual Communication. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for Graphic Designers in Minneapolis?

Minneapolis's cost of living is near the national average (105% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,600/month. Purchasing power in Minneapolis is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Graphic Designers in Minneapolis?

Minneapolis Metro light rail, bus system, and excellent bike infrastructure. The average commute is 24 minutes. Blue Line connects downtown to MSP Airport and Mall of America.

More Creative & Design Jobs in Minneapolis