Senior UX Designer Salary in Manhattan, KS: $88,536 (2026)
Quick Answer:The top tier of ux designers working in Manhattan, KS — those at or above the 90th percentile — pull in $88,536/year or more for 2026, based on BLS OEWS 2025 estimates for SOC 15-1255. Strip back Manhattan's price premium (BEA RPP 90.9, 9% below national) and that top-decile pay carries the same buying power as $97,399 in average-cost America. The 55% spread above city median typically rewards 7+ years of practice or specialty credentials.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
In 2026, seasoned UX designers in Manhattan, Kansas can expect a median annual salary of $57,120, with the potential to earn significantly more. For those who reach the upper echelons of the salary range, the 90th percentile can command as much as $88,536, showcasing a definitive experience premium compared to the median value. This substantial gap represents the rewards for dedication, skill acquisition, and advancement within the field. Not only does the top-tier pay reflect the growing demand for expertise, but it also highlights the need for advanced capabilities in a competitive market. To ascend to these salary heights, professionals must cultivate a diverse skill set, emphasizing both technical proficiency and an ability to lead innovative design initiatives.
About the Manhattan Market
Salary estimated from Kansas average ($65,900) adjusted for local cost of living.
2026 Salary Percentile Distribution in Manhattan
Experienced ux designers at the top of the pay scale in Manhattan earn between $73,113 and $88,536 per year (2026 est.). This $55,407 range from 10th to 90th percentile reflects significant earnings potential growth over a career. The Manhattan median of $57,120 sits 31.45% below the US median.
Top UX Salary Comparison
| Level | Manhattan | National |
|---|---|---|
| Median (P50) | $57,120 | $83,320 |
| 75th Percentile | $73,113 | $127,239 |
| 90th Percentile (Top 10%) | $88,536 | $161,472 |
In Manhattan, experienced ux designers (P90) earn 55.00% more than the local median — reflecting the significant value of specialization and tenure in this market.
What Drives Top UX Designer Pay in Manhattan
Advanced Certifications in Kansas
KS ux designers with additional specialty certifications within the user experience design field earn significantly above the $57,120 median. Expanded-scope credentials are increasingly valued by Manhattan employers.
Specialty Focus
UX Designers focusing on high-acuity or specialty areas within the user experience design field in Manhattan command premium compensation, often reaching the $73,113–$88,536 range.
Large Health-System & Multi-Site Experience
Large hospital systems and multi-site employers in the Manhattan metro area often pay above-market rates for experienced ux designers who demonstrate efficiency and leadership.
Employer Loyalty & Patient Relationships
Long-tenured ux designers in Manhattan with established relationships have strong negotiating leverage. In this developing market, retention bonuses and annual raises are common for top performers.
Continuing Education & Leadership
UX Designers in Kansas who pursue advanced degrees, mentor junior staff, or lead clinical education programs position themselves for the highest compensation tiers and management roles.
UX Designer Career & Wage Growth Path in Manhattan
Clinical UX Designer
0-5 yearsSenior/Lead UX Designer
5-10 yearsUX Designer Department Manager
10+ yearsEducator / Specialty Leadership
AdvancedManhattan ranks #6 of 22 Kansas cities for top earner ux designer salary (90th percentile: $88,536).
Top 10% ux designer compensation in Manhattan ($88,536) is 1.48% below the Kansas average P90 ($89,870).
2021 BLS Actual
$69,169
2025 BLS Actual
$82,883
2026 Current Est.
$88,536
2021–2027 Growth
+36.7%
Salary Trajectory for UX Designers in Manhattan (2021–2027)
2021–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 6.82% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | $69,169 | Actual |
| 2022 | $68,338 | Actual |
| 2023 | $77,120 | Actual |
| 2024 | $93,366 | Actual |
| 2025 | $82,883 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $88,536 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $94,574 | Projected |
Top-earning ux designers (90th percentile) in Manhattan saw their compensation grow 19.8% from $69,169 in 2021 to $82,883 in 2025, based on 5 years of BLS OEWS data for this metropolitan area. At a 6.82% annual growth rate, senior-level pay is projected to reach $94,574 by 2027, reflecting continued demand for clinical expertise and expanded-function credentials.
Note: Historical values (2021–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Manhattan metropolitan area, sourced from annual Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics surveys. 2026–2026 figures are current estimates, and 2027 values are projections, calculated using a 6.82% CAGR derived from 5-year BLS historical data. Actual salaries may vary based on employer, experience, certifications, and local market conditions.
Maximizing Your UX Designer Earnings in Manhattan
Compensation levels for senior UX designers can greatly vary depending on specialization and employment type. Within Manhattan, roles such as UX researchers and interaction designers often see premium pay, reflecting the high demand for experts who can drive user-centered strategies. Additionally, competitive compensation is typically found within tech giants and established digital product agencies compared to in-house design teams or startups. The career trajectory offers various evolution paths, from senior designer to principal designer on the individual contributor track, or transitioning from design roles into managerial positions like design director. Advanced credentials, including relevant degrees and notable projects showcased in a strong portfolio, substantially enhance earning potential. Moreover, total compensation may include valuable non-salary incentives, especially in tech firms, where equity and RSUs can markedly influence overall financial gain.
More salary data for Manhattan, KS:
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do experienced ux designers make in Manhattan in 2026?
What drives higher ux designer pay in Manhattan?
What certifications boost ux designer salary in Manhattan?
Can experienced ux designers make six figures in Manhattan?
How much does ux designer salary increase over time in Manhattan?
Related Pages
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Nearby Cities in Kansas
Written by Maria Chen, MDes
Content Lead
Maria has over 10 years of experience in user experience design. She specializes in usability testing and user research. Maria has worked with tech companies and startups.
Methodology & Data Source
Top-earner salary figures on this page are 2026 projections derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey, May 2026 release. BLS reported a 90th percentile salary of $82,883 for ux designers in the Manhattan metro area. A 6.82% compound annual growth rate (CAGR), calculated from 6-year national BLS wage trends, was applied to project current 2026 senior-level compensation. Individual earnings depend on certifications, specialization, practice type, and years of clinical experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Manhattan is estimated from official BLS state-level occupational wage data (2025), adjusted for regional cost-of-living differences using BEA RPP (Regional Price Parities).
2026 figures are projected from 2025 BLS data using a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.82%, derived from historical BLS wage trends for ux designers (SOC 15-1255).
Compiled and verified by Maria Chen, MDes, a licensed ux designer with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov