Public Relations Specialists vs. Graphic Designers: Who Earns More?
Public Relations Specialists out-earn Graphic Designers by $12K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Public Relations Specialists land at $74,750 and Graphic Designers at $62,960. The education gap is real: public relations specialist programs typically require bachelor's degree, while graphic designer programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Public Relations Specialists is District of Columbia ($102,740); for Graphic Designers it's District of Columbia ($87,920).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Public Relations Specialists median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Public Relations Specialists or Graphic Designers?
Public Relations Specialists earn more nationally. The median is $74,750 for Public Relations Specialists versus $62,960 for Graphic Designers, a difference of $12K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Public Relations Specialists or Graphic Designers?
Public Relations Specialists has the better 10-year outlook at 4.8% projected growth, compared to 2.1% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Public Relations Specialists or Graphic Designers?
Public Relations Specialists typically requires bachelor's degree. Graphic Designers requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Public Relations Specialists get paid the most?
District of Columbia is the top-paying state for Public Relations Specialists at $102,740/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Public Relations Specialists vs. Graphic Designers pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In District of Columbia, Public Relations Specialists earn $102,740 vs. $87,920 for Graphic Designers. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.