Behind every captivating space is an expert with a flair for aesthetics, function, and spatial comprehension— an interior designer. But as these professionals tailor surroundings to resonate with our tastes and lifestyles, the question inevitably arises: "how much do interior designers make?" This guide delves into the interior designer salary landscape, using the latest data to answer that crucial question.
The State of Interior Design Salaries
The world of interior design is as diverse as the spaces these professionals transform, with compensation reflecting a blend of factors such as location, specialization, and experience. As reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for interior designers was $58,820 in May 2020, but the highest 10 percent could earn more than $97,900. Interestingly, the International Interior Design Association discloses that the average total compensation for interior designers in 2020, which factors in bonuses and profit sharing, was an elevated $86,300.
Certification also comes into play. NCIDQ-certified interior designers were found to earn 23% more than their non-certified counterparts, according to the IIDA. Additionally, education significantly influences earning potential.
Salary by Location
Geographical location plays a considerable role in the compensation of interior designers. Here is a snapshot of average salaries in some sought-after locations:
These figures, drawn from Houzz Pro and Indeed, offer a geographical overview of interior designer salaries. Bear in mind that these figures can fluctuate based on experience, specialization, and other factors.
Salary by Experience Level
Experience, unsurprisingly, plays a significant role in the earning potential of interior designers. Here's a look at average salaries by years in the field:
These numbers, derived from PayScale, show an increase in salary with experience, reaching a plateau after a decade in the industry.
Educational Impact on Interior Designer Salary
The level of education attained by an interior designer plays a substantial role in shaping their earning potential. This is primarily due to the fact that higher education often equates to increased qualifications, enhanced skill sets, bolstered reputation, and a broader array of job opportunities.
This data from Salary Explorer paints a clear picture of how educational attainment influences an interior designer's average salary:
As illustrated, a professional with a master's degree in interior design earns almost double the annual income of one who only holds a high school diploma.
However, education is not the sole determiner of an interior designer's salary. Professional certifications also play an integral role in shaping an interior designer's income and credibility. According to Houzz¹, interior designers possessing advanced degrees or additional certifications (NCIDQ, LEED, or CID) report a median salary that's $17,000 greater than their counterparts without these credentials.