How much does a Architect make?
Architects often earn a good salary. This career offers a rewarding income with many opportunities for growth. The average yearly salary for an architect is about $145,345. This salary can change based on the architect’s experience, location, and the type of projects they work on.
The salary range for architects can vary. Most architects start with a lower salary. As they gain more experience, their salary increases. An entry-level architect might earn around $63,910. Experienced architects can earn upwards of $282,000 per year. Here is a look at the different salary ranges for architects:
- 10th percentile: $63,910
- 25th percentile: $83,736
- 50th percentile: $103,562
- 75th percentile: $123,389
- 90th percentile: $143,215
- 95th percentile: $163,042
- 99th percentile: $182,868
- 100th percentile: $202,694
- 100th percentile: $222,521
- 100th percentile: $242,347
- 100th percentile: $262,174
- 100th percentile: $282,000
What are the highest paying cities for a Architect?

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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $201,746
San Jose is a tech hub with many opportunities for architectural professionals. Companies like Google and Apple demand high-quality designs. Architects here blend creativity with technology in their projects.
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Fayetteville, AR
Average Salary: $197,335
In Fayetteville, the architectural scene is growing. It offers a mix of projects from educational institutions to commercial developments. Firms here focus on sustainability and community design.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $190,260
San Diego offers a vibrant environment for architects. The city's beautiful climate and coastal location inspire unique designs. Notable firms like Perkins+Will provide diverse opportunities in urban planning.
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Boulder, CO
Average Salary: $179,260
Boulder combines natural beauty with innovative architecture. Architects here enjoy working on eco-friendly projects. The community values creativity and sustainability.
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Little Rock, AR
Average Salary: $179,250
Little Rock presents a mix of historic and modern architecture. Architects can find work with local firms on government projects. The city offers a supportive environment for growth and learning.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $173,638
San Francisco is known for its iconic skyline and diverse architectural projects. Architects here work on cutting-edge designs. Companies like Gensler and Skidmore, Owings & Merrill offer dynamic career paths.
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Stamford, CT
Average Salary: $169,903
Stamford offers a mix of commercial and residential projects. Architects work with firms like CBRE and Jones Lang LaSalle. The city values innovative design solutions and modern aesthetics.
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Austin, TX
Average Salary: $166,877
Austin's lively culture fuels creative architectural projects. The city's rapid growth means lots of opportunities. Architects here enjoy working with tech companies and on public spaces.
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Hartford, CT
Average Salary: $161,456
Hartford provides a mix of historic preservation and new developments. Architects work with firms like HNTB and Turner Construction. The city offers a rich environment for learning and professional growth.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $156,044
Seattle's landscape inspires unique architectural designs. The city is known for its modern buildings and green spaces. Firms like ZGF Architects and NBBJ offer exciting projects in urban development.
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What are the best companies a Architect can work for?

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Okta
Average Salary: $281,575
At Okta, Architects play a key role in shaping secure digital experiences. They work on various projects across the company's global offices, including locations in the United States and Europe. This role emphasizes innovation and collaboration.
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Micron Technology, Inc.
Average Salary: $266,464
Micron Technology, Inc. offers exciting opportunities for Architects to design and develop advanced semiconductor solutions. The company operates globally with major offices in the U.S., Europe, and Asia. Architects here focus on cutting-edge technology.
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Piper Companies
Average Salary: $254,087
Piper Companies provides Architects with opportunities to design and implement infrastructure projects. The firm has offices in North America, Europe, and the Middle East. Architects work on diverse projects, ensuring quality and efficiency.
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Apple
Average Salary: $247,373
Apple offers dynamic roles for Architects to create innovative products. The company's global presence, with major offices in the U.S., Europe, and Asia, allows for diverse and exciting projects. Architects at Apple focus on user experience and design.
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KPMG
Average Salary: $241,554
KPMG provides opportunities for Architects to work on significant infrastructure and technology projects. The company operates worldwide, with offices in major cities across the U.S., Europe, and Asia. Architects here collaborate on large-scale initiatives.
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SAP
Average Salary: $240,529
SAP offers diverse roles for Architects to develop enterprise software solutions. The company's global network, with offices in North America, Europe, and Asia, allows for varied and impactful projects. Architects work on integrating technology across industries.
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Samsung Electronics
Average Salary: $239,785
Samsung Electronics provides Architects with opportunities to innovate in consumer electronics and technology. The company operates globally, with key offices in South Korea, the U.S., and Europe. Architects here focus on creating next-generation products.
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Google
Average Salary: $239,350
Google offers exciting roles for Architects to design and improve digital services. The company has a global presence, with major offices in the U.S., Europe, and Asia. Architects here work on user-centered design and technology advancement.
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Robert Half
Average Salary: $230,198
Robert Half provides opportunities for Architects to work on various infrastructure and technology projects. The firm's global network, with offices in North America, Europe, and Asia, offers diverse and impactful roles. Architects here focus on delivering high-quality solutions.
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Qualcomm
Average Salary: $228,438
Qualcomm offers roles for Architects to develop innovative wireless technology solutions. The company has a global presence, with major offices in the U.S., Europe, and Asia. Architects here work on pushing the boundaries of technology.
How to earn more as a Architect?
Architects have the chance to earn more by using different strategies. Specializing in a particular area can open new opportunities. Working in a busy city where demand for architects is high can lead to higher pay. Taking on leadership roles, such as project manager, also increases earning potential. Another way to increase income is by gaining certifications that show expertise in a specific area of architecture.
Networking with other professionals can lead to job referrals and partnerships. Architects who join professional organizations can access resources that help them find better-paying jobs. Keeping skills up-to-date with the latest software and design trends can make an architect more valuable. Taking on freelance projects or starting a personal design business can create extra income streams. Finally, investing in further education, such as a master’s degree, can lead to higher-paying positions.
Architects have many ways to boost their income. By focusing on these factors, they can increase their earning potential.
- Specialize in a niche area of architecture
- Work in high-demand cities or regions
- Take on leadership or managerial roles
- Earn relevant certifications and licenses
- Join professional organizations and networks



