Interior Design Salary in USA: Pay, Top Cities & Growth

When we think about interior design, creativity and innovation come to mind, but what about the financial rewards? For those considering a career in this dynamic field, understanding the interior design salary landscape is just as important as having a passion for design. Interior designers in the U.S. play a vital role in transforming spaces, and their interior design compensation reflects a mix of skill, experience, and location.

As we explore the earning trends for interior designers across the country, it’s clear that factors like industry demand and specialization significantly impact income. Whether you’re an aspiring designer wondering how much does an interior designer make a year or simply curious about design career earnings, knowing what to expect can help you plan your career path more effectively. Let’s dive into what shapes interior design pay and how it varies across the U.S.

Overview Of Interior Designer Salaries In The USA

Interior designer salaries in the U.S. vary widely depending on data source, experience, and geography. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for interior designers was $63,490 in May 2024, with employment projected to grow 3 percent from 2024 to 2034. The BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics reports a mean annual wage of $68,530 and a median of $62,510. Entry-level designers at the 10th percentile earn around $37,730 per year, while top earners at the 90th percentile can exceed $101,860 annually. According to the ASID 2025 State of Interior Design Report, the average salary for interior designers in 2024 was $71,430, representing a 2.1% increase from 2023.

Location significantly impacts earnings. Designers in metropolises like New York City, Los Angeles, and San Francisco often report higher salaries due to elevated living costs and demand. For instance, the salary for interior designer in California consistently ranks above the national average, reflecting the state’s strong interior design jobs salary benchmarks. According to Glassdoor, the average interior designer salary in California reaches approximately $93,085 per year when factoring in total pay.

Specialization also plays a role in salary potential. Professionals focusing on niches like sustainable design or luxury interiors command higher rates, given the expertise required. Additionally, designers working in architectural and engineering services tend to make more than those in retail or wholesale industries. According to ZipRecruiter, the average interior design pay in the U.S. reaches approximately $72,849 per year as of 2025, while Glassdoor reports an average total pay of $92,073 including bonuses, profit sharing, and commissions.

Freelance designers may experience fluctuating income levels. While some achieve annual earnings comparable to top industry professionals, others face inconsistencies based on client demand. For those interested in the freelance route, explore our guide on freelance salaries and job hunting strategies.

Factors Influencing Interior Design Compensation

Interior designer salaries depend on varying aspects that shape earning potential across the U.S. Key factors include experience level, education, location, and industry type. Understanding these variables helps answer the common question: how much do interior designers make per year?

Level Of Experience

Experience significantly impacts interior design salary ranges. Entry-level designers with less than three years of experience can expect an interior designer beginning salary around $40,000–$50,000 annually, according to recent industry data from PayScale and ZipRecruiter. Professionals with over ten years of experience command higher figures, often exceeding $101,860 at the 90th percentile. Mid-career designers with 5–9 years of experience earn an average of approximately $60,000–$75,000. Advanced skillsets and portfolio depth contribute to this progression, making experience one of the strongest drivers of interior design pay.

Education And Certifications

Higher education and certifications elevate earning potential. Designers with bachelor’s or master’s degrees in interior design often secure roles offering above-average pay. Industry-recognized credentials, like NCIDQ Certification, enable professionals to stand out, with certified designers frequently earning premiums over non-certified peers. Some states require licensure, and passing the NCIDQ exam can increase both opportunities and interior design compensation even where licensure is optional. LEED accreditation is another credential that can boost income for interior designers, especially those specializing in sustainable and green design.

Location And Cost Of Living

Geography plays a pivotal role in the average wage interior designer professionals receive. Salaries are higher in cities with elevated living costs and demand, such as New York or San Francisco, where averages may surpass $78,000. In contrast, areas with lower demand or affordability may offer incomes below the national average. States like California, the District of Columbia, and Massachusetts consistently report some of the highest interior design salary figures in the country. The interior design salary in New York City, for example, ranks among the top nationwide, driven by the city’s luxury real estate market and commercial development activity.

Industry And Employer Type

The employing industry influences salary levels. Interior designers in architectural or engineering services earn higher median wages—approximately $73,990 annually according to BLS data—than those in retail or wholesale sectors. Employers focusing on high-end markets, luxury interiors, or sustainable design pay higher wages. Designers in federal government positions and the securities industry earn among the highest interior design jobs salary figures, with some exceeding $110,000. The salary of interior architect professionals working at the intersection of architecture and design is similarly competitive. Freelancers may match or exceed industry professional salaries in high-demand scenarios but face more income volatility.

Average Interior Design Salary Ranges by Experience

Interior designer salaries vary significantly based on experience level, with noticeable differences between entry-level, mid-career, and senior professionals. Understanding these salary ranges provides detailed insights into how much can an interior designer make at different career points and helps answer the question of what is the average salary for an interior designer.

Entry-Level Interior Designer Salaries

Entry-level interior designers earn an average starting salary of approximately $35,000–$50,000 annually, with variations depending on location and employer. States like New York and California often offer entry salaries closer to $45,000–$55,000 due to higher demand and living costs. Employers in retail or wholesale industries typically provide lower starting salaries compared to architectural or engineering firms. Professionals in smaller cities may see salaries below the national average. Building a strong portfolio early in your career and gaining proficiency in software like AutoCAD, Revit, and SketchUp can accelerate earning growth. According to PayScale, an early career interior designer with 1–4 years of experience earns an average total compensation of around $56,033.

Mid-Career Interior Designer Salaries

Mid-career designers, with 5–10 years of experience, earn average salaries ranging from $60,000 to $80,000 annually. Designers with specialized skills, such as sustainable design or workplace interiors, can command higher rates. Location continues to play a key role, with urban areas like Los Angeles and Chicago offering salaries exceeding $75,000 for skilled professionals. Certification and advanced degrees further boost interior design compensation. Industry data indicates a significant salary jump around the five-year experience mark when professionals develop project management and niche specialization skills. The annual salary interior designer professionals earn at this stage is often supplemented by bonuses and commissions.

Senior-Level and Sr Interior Designer Salary

Senior designers, with 10+ years of experience, earn upwards of $80,000, with top earners in high-demand markets like San Francisco and New York exceeding $100,000 annually. The sr interior designer salary reflects leadership responsibilities, client management, and project oversight. According to the BLS, the 90th percentile reaches $101,860, while Glassdoor reports senior-level total pay can range from $63,000 to over $178,000 depending on the firm and market. Salary.com data places the average senior interior designer salary nationally at around $70,100, with top-paying states like D.C. and California offering $77,000+. Professionals managing large teams or handling multimillion-dollar projects often receive substantial bonuses or profit-sharing, adding to their overall compensation. Freelance senior designers may see high earnings if they’ve established strong client networks.

Interior Design Salary Comparison By State And City

Earnings for interior designers in the U.S. vary significantly based on location. States and cities with higher living costs and strong demand for design services usually offer higher interior design salary packages. Understanding the interior designer salary by state helps professionals make informed decisions about relocation and career planning.

Highest-Paying States For Interior Designers

Certain states provide salaries well above the national average for interior designers. Based on 2025 data from Salary.com, the District of Columbia leads with an average of $66,343, followed closely by California at $66,091. California’s strength is driven by high demand in cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco. New York follows with an average of $63,700 due to the state’s vibrant design industry and urban-centric client base. Massachusetts ($65,210) and Washington state ($64,971) also rank among the top. Texas, known for its growing real estate market, offers competitive salaries, especially in cities like Austin and Dallas. The USA architect and designer salary trends confirm these geographic patterns across design professions.

Interior Design Salary New York City and Other High-Demand Cities

Specific cities stand out for their demand and compensation levels. The interior design salary New York City offers is among the highest nationally, with Glassdoor reporting average total pay of around $93,000–$108,000 for mid-to-senior level designers. Los Angeles and San Francisco mirror similar trends, powered by thriving entertainment and tech industries; Glassdoor estimates the average total pay in Los Angeles at approximately $90,559. In Chicago, an interior designer earns solid salaries aided by the metropolitan area’s robust construction and urban development. Miami also shows rising demand, driven by high-end residential and hospitality projects. Other notable cities include Seattle and Washington, D.C., each offering competitive interior design jobs salary figures due to specialized industries and affluent clientele. Sacramento and Portland have also emerged as top-paying cities for the profession, according to Zippia data.

How Interior Designers Get Paid: Salary, Hourly, and Project Fees

Understanding how does interior designer get paid is important for both clients and aspiring professionals. Interior designers typically earn income through one or more of the following methods: a fixed annual salary from a firm or employer, hourly rates that range from $50 to $200+ depending on experience and market, flat project fees, a percentage of the overall project cost (commonly 10%–25%), or a combination of fees plus retail markups on furnishings and materials. Senior designers and firm owners may also earn profit-sharing distributions. According to the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), understanding these fee structures is key to building a sustainable income for interior designers, whether salaried or self-employed.

Can Interior Designers Make Good Money?

One of the most common questions about this profession is: can interior designers make good money? The answer is yes—especially for those who strategically develop their skills, pursue certifications, and position themselves in high-demand markets. While the median interior design salary sits at $63,490 (BLS, 2024), high earners in the field routinely surpass $100,000, with some reaching $150,000+ in major metropolitan areas. The key factors that separate top earners from average ones include specialization in lucrative niches (luxury residential, hospitality, healthcare design), strong business acumen, and leveraging technology like BIM and 3D visualization. Designers who combine creative talent with project management, client acquisition skills, and a deep understanding of modern interior architecture trends are best positioned to maximize their income for interior designers.

How To Increase Your Interior Design Pay

Interior designers looking to boost their earning potential have several proven strategies. Pursuing advanced certifications like the NCIDQ or LEED credentials demonstrates expertise and often translates directly into higher interior design compensation. Specializing in high-demand niches—such as healthcare design, hospitality interiors, or sustainable design—positions professionals for premium pay. Developing proficiency in technologies like BIM, 3D visualization, and virtual reality design tools further differentiates designers in a competitive market.

Relocating to or seeking remote opportunities with firms in high-paying metropolitan areas can significantly impact earnings. Building a robust portfolio, cultivating strong client relationships, and expanding into project management roles are also effective paths toward higher interior design salary levels. Designers who understand the business side of design—including pricing strategies, client acquisition, and contract negotiation—consistently outperform peers. For related career growth strategies, see our guide on how to increase your design salary. Additionally, networking through professional organizations such as ASID and attending events like NeoCon can open doors to higher-paying opportunities and referrals.

Interior Decorator Wage vs. Interior Designer Salary

While the terms are often used interchangeably, the salary interior decorator professionals earn differs from that of licensed interior designers. Interior decorators focus primarily on aesthetics—selecting colors, furnishings, and accessories—while interior designers handle space planning, building codes, and structural modifications. This distinction is reflected in compensation: the average interior decorator salary tends to be lower, with estimates ranging from $45,000 to $60,000 annually, compared to the broader interior design salary average of $63,490–$72,849. Certified and licensed interior designers, especially those holding NCIDQ certification, typically earn a premium due to their expanded scope of work and legal authority to modify interior spaces. For those exploring the differences between these career paths and other design-adjacent roles, understanding the salary gap can help guide educational and career decisions.

Additional Benefits And Perks

Interior designers in the U.S. often enjoy various benefits beyond base salaries, enhancing the overall interior design compensation package. These extras range from financial rewards to professional development opportunities, adding long-term value to their careers.

Bonuses And Profit Shares

Many firms offer performance-based bonuses and profit-sharing options to interior designers. According to PayScale, bonuses can range from $567 to $8,000 annually, while profit-sharing adds between $538 and $8,000, depending on the designer’s contribution to high-value projects or meeting client demands. Commissions are another income component, ranging from $979 to $30,000 for designers working on product sales or procurement. Freelance designers may also negotiate project-specific bonuses as part of their contracts, especially for large-scale or repeat clients.

Opportunities For Growth And Networking

The interior design industry provides numerous chances for career advancement and collaboration. Designers frequently attend trade shows, design expos, and networking events, such as NeoCon or High Point Market, to connect with industry leaders and expand professional networks. These opportunities can lead to mentorships, collaborations, or new job prospects. In addition, many employers cover the cost of certifications, workshops, and advanced training, which enhance skills and career trajectories. Professional organizations like ASID (American Society of Interior Designers) also provide valuable resources for career development. For those exploring related career paths, our architecture career salaries guide offers additional perspective on earning potential in the built environment.

Interior Design Employment Outlook and Career Outlook For 2025–2034

The interior design employment outlook remains positive. The BLS projects 3% employment growth for interior designers from 2024 to 2034, roughly in line with the average for all occupations, with approximately 7,800 openings projected each year. As of 2024, approximately 87,100 interior designers were employed across the U.S., with the ASID estimating an additional 56,449 self-employed designers. Growing demand in sectors like healthcare, hospitality, and sustainable commercial design is expected to drive continued increases in the average wage interior designer professionals earn. The integration of technology—particularly BIM, AI-assisted design tools, and virtual staging—is creating new revenue streams and elevating the value of tech-savvy designers.

Remote and hybrid work trends are also reshaping demand, as companies invest in redesigning workspaces and homeowners seek professional help creating functional home offices and living spaces. The interior designer career outlook is especially strong for professionals who specialize in aging-in-place design, wellness-focused interiors, and commercial workspace transformation. Designers who stay current with industry innovations, maintain strong professional networks, and pursue continuous learning are best positioned for long-term interior design salary growth. According to a Research.com analysis, the number of employed interior designers is expected to reach approximately 89,900 by 2034.

Conclusion

Understanding the interior design salary landscape in the U.S. helps us identify key factors shaping earning potential across various experience levels, locations, and industries. The yearly salary of an interior designer ranges widely, with entry-level designers earning approximately $35,000–$50,000 annually and experienced professionals in high-demand cities exceeding $100,000.

We’ve outlined how location, such as New York or California, can lead to higher earnings, and how specializations like sustainable and luxury interior design elevate interior design pay. Senior positions and freelance opportunities offer paths for increased compensation, while architectural and engineering services stand out as high-paying industries for interior design salary jobs.

From bonuses and profit-sharing to professional development support, additional benefits enhance overall interior design compensation. For aspiring and established designers, aligning skills, certifications, and career goals with regional and industry opportunities is essential for maximizing earnings and growth. Whether you’re researching how much do interior designers get paid or mapping your next career move, the data shows that interior design remains a financially rewarding profession with strong growth prospects through 2034 and beyond.