How much does a Architect make?
Architects design buildings and other structures. They work with clients to understand their needs and create plans that meet those needs. The average yearly salary for an architect is $141,448. This means that most architects earn between $70,000 and $268,500 each year. The exact salary can depend on many factors, such as experience, location, and the type of projects they work on.
Architects often start with lower salaries when they first enter the field. As they gain more experience, their salaries tend to increase. Here is a breakdown of the salary distribution for architects:
- The lowest 10% earn less than $70,000.
- The next 10% earn between $70,000 and $88,045.
- The next 10% earn between $88,045 and $106,091.
- The next 10% earn between $106,091 and $124,136.
- The next 10% earn between $124,136 and $142,182.
- The next 10% earn between $142,182 and $160,227.
- The next 10% earn between $160,227 and $178,273.
- The next 10% earn between $178,273 and $196,318.
- The next 10% earn between $196,318 and $214,364.
- The next 10% earn between $214,364 and $232,409.
- The top 10% earn more than $232,409.
What are the highest paying cities for a Architect?
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $195,439
In San Jose, professionals thrive in the tech hub, working with leading companies like Google and Apple. The city offers a dynamic environment with many opportunities for innovation.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $190,073
San Diego provides a vibrant atmosphere for design experts, with companies like Qualcomm and biotech firms seeking creative solutions. The city's mild climate adds to the quality of life.
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Boulder, CO
Average Salary: $176,822
Boulder offers a unique blend of natural beauty and professional growth. Architects here work with firms like Ball Aerospace and enjoy the outdoor lifestyle the city provides.
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Stamford, CT
Average Salary: $170,035
Stamford is home to major financial institutions and corporations like UBS and Xerox. Architects here benefit from a mix of corporate and residential projects.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $164,199
San Francisco is a center for architectural excellence, with a focus on sustainability and innovation. Companies like Salesforce and Uber offer exciting projects for skilled designers.
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Hartford, CT
Average Salary: $156,850
Hartford provides a mix of historic and modern projects. Architects here work with firms like The Hartford and benefit from a vibrant cultural scene.
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Austin, TX
Average Salary: $155,502
Austin offers a lively atmosphere with a strong tech presence. Companies like Dell and Apple provide diverse opportunities for architects in this growing city.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $151,844
Seattle is known for its innovative tech scene and natural beauty. Architects here work with companies like Amazon and enjoy a high quality of life.
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Little Rock, AR
Average Salary: $148,902
Little Rock offers a mix of historic and modern projects. Architects here work with firms like Alltel and benefit from a growing tech scene.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $147,078
Washington, DC provides a unique blend of history and modern architecture. Architects here work with government agencies and firms like Lockheed Martin.
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What are the best companies a Architect can work for?
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Okta
Average Salary: $312,882
Okta offers exciting Architect roles with a focus on cloud security. They operate globally, with major offices in the U.S., Europe, and Asia.
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Arm
Average Salary: $274,408
Arm provides innovative Architect positions. They have offices in the U.S., U.K., and across Asia, offering a dynamic work environment.
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SAP
Average Salary: $248,971
SAP offers rewarding Architect jobs with a focus on enterprise software. They have offices worldwide, including the U.S., Germany, and India.
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Apple
Average Salary: $238,786
Apple provides Architect roles with a focus on cutting-edge technology. They have offices in the U.S., Europe, and Asia, offering a creative work environment.
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KPMG
Average Salary: $238,618
KPMG offers Architect positions with a focus on consulting and advisory services. They have offices in the U.S., U.K., and across Asia.
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AMD
Average Salary: $237,247
AMD provides Architect roles with a focus on semiconductor design. They have offices in the U.S., Europe, and Asia, offering a technical work environment.
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PwC
Average Salary: $234,984
PwC offers Architect positions with a focus on assurance and advisory services. They have offices in the U.S., U.K., and across Asia.
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Google
Average Salary: $233,757
Google provides Architect roles with a focus on technology and innovation. They have offices in the U.S., Europe, and Asia, offering a collaborative work environment.
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Piper Companies
Average Salary: $232,538
Piper Companies offers Architect positions with a focus on financial services. They have offices in the U.S., Europe, and Asia, offering a professional work environment.
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Salesforce
Average Salary: $229,973
Salesforce provides Architect roles with a focus on cloud computing. They have offices in the U.S., Europe, and Asia, offering a dynamic work environment.
How to earn more as a Architect?
Architects have the opportunity to earn more by focusing on several key areas. Specialization in a niche can lead to higher earnings. For example, architects who specialize in sustainable design or healthcare facilities often command higher fees. Gaining certifications can also boost income. Certifications like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) can make an architect more attractive to employers and clients. Networking plays a crucial role in increasing earnings. Building strong relationships with industry professionals can lead to more job opportunities and higher-paying projects. Continuing education is another factor. Staying updated with the latest trends and technologies can make an architect more competitive. Finally, taking on leadership roles can lead to higher salaries. Architects who become project managers or partners in a firm often see significant increases in their earnings.
Architects can also increase their income by expanding their service offerings. Offering services like interior design or urban planning can attract more clients. Working with multiple clients can also lead to higher earnings. Diversifying the portfolio with different types of projects can open up more revenue streams. Architects should also consider the location when seeking higher pay. Urban areas often offer higher salaries compared to rural areas. Lastly, marketing skills can help an architect earn more. Effective marketing can lead to a larger client base and more projects.
Here are five factors to consider for earning more as an architect:
- Specialize in a niche
- Gain relevant certifications
- Network with industry professionals
- Continue education and stay updated
- Take on leadership roles
