How much does a Design Consultant make?
Design consultants work with businesses and clients to create spaces that are both functional and visually appealing. They bring ideas to life through their designs, ensuring that each space meets the specific needs of their clients. These professionals often earn a solid income, with many making an average of about $90,000 per year.
The salary range for design consultants can vary based on factors such as experience, location, and the size of the company they work for. At the lower end, some consultants might earn around $35,000 each year. As they gain more experience, their earnings can increase significantly, reaching up to $225,000 or more annually for top consultants. Having a strong portfolio and excellent client relationships can help boost earning potential.
Design consultants often work independently or for design firms. Their work is creative and fulfilling, allowing them to shape the environments where people live, work, and play. This career offers both financial rewards and the opportunity to be creative every day.
What are the highest paying cities for a Design Consultant?

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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $155,116
In Phoenix, consultants create designs for both commercial and residential spaces. Well-known firms like Taylor Morrison and Arizona Home Builders offer exciting opportunities.
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Tucson, AZ
Average Salary: $149,728
Tucson offers a mix of urban and natural landscapes for consultants to design. Companies like The Arizona Daily Star and Sonoran Desert Institute provide diverse projects.
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Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $133,894
Baltimore's rich history and vibrant culture inspire unique design projects. Consultants work with firms like Under Armour and The Johns Hopkins University.
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Gainesville, FL
Average Salary: $122,206
Gainesville combines a college town feel with modern design needs. Consultants find opportunities with the University of Florida and local businesses.
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Oklahoma City, OK
Average Salary: $118,615
In Oklahoma City, consultants bring new life to both urban and rural projects. Companies like Devon Energy and Sonic offer dynamic work environments.
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Montgomery, AL
Average Salary: $115,533
Montgomery presents a blend of traditional and modern design challenges. Consultants can find work with the Alabama Department of Transportation and local firms.
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Riverside, CA
Average Salary: $113,370
Riverside offers a Mediterranean climate perfect for outdoor designs. Consultants work with companies like Riverside National Cemetery and local tech firms.
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Columbia, SC
Average Salary: $112,583
Columbia's growing economy creates many design opportunities. Consultants can engage with companies like Sonoco and the University of South Carolina.
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Grand Rapids, MI
Average Salary: $112,384
In Grand Rapids, consultants blend innovative design with the city's industrial heritage. Companies like Amway and Steelcase offer diverse projects.
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Tampa, FL
Average Salary: $111,946
Tampa's coastal location provides unique design challenges and opportunities. Consultants work with firms like Raymond James and Busch Gardens.
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What are the best companies a Design Consultant can work for?

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West Shore Home
Average Salary: $200,000
West Shore Home offers Design Consultant roles across the USA. Here, consultants help design custom home solutions. They collaborate closely with clients to create stunning living spaces.
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Renewal by Andersen
Average Salary: $171,232
Renewal by Andersen provides Design Consultant jobs in various US locations. Consultants work to design and implement home improvement projects. Locations include the Northeast and Midwest.
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R1 RCM
Average Salary: $160,000
R1 RCM offers Design Consultant roles nationwide. They focus on improving healthcare revenue cycles. Consultants use design skills to enhance patient care areas.
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Bay Home & Window
Average Salary: $156,250
Bay Home & Window provides Design Consultant jobs in the Midwest and Northeast. Consultants work on creating beautiful home exteriors. They focus on windows, doors, and siding.
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Rite Rug
Average Salary: $148,682
Rite Rug offers Design Consultant roles across the US. They specialize in home textiles. Consultants help design and select rugs, carpets, and other home textiles.
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Interior Logic Group
Average Salary: $139,623
Interior Logic Group provides Design Consultant jobs in various US cities. They focus on commercial interior design. Consultants work with businesses to create professional environments.
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Luxury Bath Technologies
Average Salary: $137,128
Luxury Bath Technologies offers Design Consultant roles nationwide. They specialize in high-end bathroom design. Consultants help clients create luxurious and functional bathrooms.
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Kaiser Permanente
Average Salary: $132,060
Kaiser Permanente provides Design Consultant jobs in the West and Midwest. They focus on healthcare facility design. Consultants work to create welcoming and efficient patient care areas.
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RE-BATH
Average Salary: $130,585
RE-BATH offers Design Consultant roles in select US cities. They specialize in bathroom remodeling. Consultants help clients design functional and stylish bathrooms.
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The Floor Store
Average Salary: $119,091
The Floor Store provides Design Consultant jobs across the US. They focus on flooring solutions. Consultants help clients select and design flooring for homes and businesses.
How to earn more as a Design Consultant?
Design consultants have a great opportunity to increase their earnings. Many paths can lead to higher pay. These paths involve improving skills, gaining experience, and finding the right job opportunities. Understanding these areas can help consultants earn more.
Here are some important factors to consider:
- Specialize in a Niche: Consultants who focus on specific areas, like UX design or branding, often command higher fees. Specializing makes a consultant more valuable to clients.
- Build a Strong Portfolio: A well-designed portfolio showcases skills and past work. It attracts more clients and opportunities for higher-paying projects.
- Network Effectively: Attending industry events and connecting with other professionals can lead to new job opportunities. Networking can also help in finding high-paying clients.
- Seek Advanced Certifications: Certifications in areas like Adobe Creative Suite or UX design can make a consultant more attractive to potential employers.
- Negotiate Better Rates: Experienced consultants often know how to negotiate higher fees. They base their rates on market standards and their value to clients.



