How much does a Instructional Designer make?
Instructional designers create training programs and materials for businesses, schools, and other organizations. They earn a good salary for their work. The average yearly salary for an instructional designer is around $77,400. This means that most instructional designers make between $40,000 and $145,000 each year. The exact amount can change based on experience, education, and the industry.
The salary range for instructional designers shows how varied the field can be. The bottom 10% of earners make less than $40,000 a year. The top 10% make more than $135,000. Most instructional designers fall somewhere in the middle. This range offers a lot of opportunities for growth and advancement. With more experience, instructional designers can move up to higher-paying positions.
What are the highest paying cities for a Instructional Designer?

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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $118,075
In San Jose, tech companies thrive, offering many opportunities for those designing learning programs. Companies like Google and Adobe seek skilled professionals to create engaging training materials. The tech-driven environment provides a dynamic and innovative workplace for instructional designers.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $100,248
San Francisco is home to many startups and established tech giants. Instructional designers here work on cutting-edge projects, enhancing employee skills and knowledge. Companies like Salesforce and LinkedIn value creative and effective learning solutions.
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Colorado Springs, CO
Average Salary: $92,428
Colorado Springs offers a mix of military and tech industries. Instructional designers here develop training programs that cater to both sectors. Organizations like the U.S. Air Force Academy and various tech firms provide diverse opportunities for growth.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $89,092
Boston's rich educational landscape offers many opportunities for instructional designers. Companies in the biotech and healthcare sectors, like Mass General Brigham and Biogen, need professionals to create impactful training programs. The city's vibrant academic environment fosters innovation and collaboration.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $88,656
Seattle's tech industry, led by companies like Microsoft and Amazon, offers exciting roles for instructional designers. They create training programs that enhance employee skills and drive company success. The city's innovative spirit provides a stimulating work environment.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $86,574
In Washington, DC, instructional designers work with government agencies and non-profits. They develop training programs that improve efficiency and effectiveness. Organizations like the U.S. Department of Education and various NGOs offer diverse and impactful projects.
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Columbus, OH
Average Salary: $86,540
Columbus has a growing tech sector and established companies. Instructional designers here create training programs that meet the needs of diverse industries. Companies like Nationwide and Huntington Bank offer opportunities for professional growth and development.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $84,815
Los Angeles offers a vibrant entertainment and tech industry. Instructional designers work on projects for companies like Disney and various tech startups. The city's diverse culture provides a dynamic and creative work environment.
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Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $84,338
Baltimore's healthcare and education sectors offer many opportunities for instructional designers. They develop training programs that improve skills and knowledge. Organizations like Johns Hopkins and various educational institutions provide a supportive and innovative workplace.
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Pittsburgh, PA
Average Salary: $83,117
Pittsburgh's tech and healthcare industries offer diverse roles for instructional designers. They create training programs that enhance employee skills and drive company success. Companies like UPMC and various tech firms provide a collaborative and forward-thinking environment.
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What are the best companies a Instructional Designer can work for?

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Apple
Average Salary: $180,581
Apple offers exciting opportunities for Instructional Designers. They work on creating innovative learning experiences for employees. Apple operates globally, with major offices in the U.S., Europe, and Asia.
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Clarity Consultants
Average Salary: $126,150
Clarity Consultants provides top-notch roles for Instructional Designers. They focus on developing training programs for various industries. The company has offices in the U.S., Canada, and the U.K.
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Leidos
Average Salary: $118,777
Leidos offers rewarding positions for Instructional Designers. They create training solutions for government and commercial clients. Leidos has locations across the U.S. and internationally.
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Aptara
Average Salary: $108,432
Aptara provides a dynamic environment for Instructional Designers. They work on educational content and e-learning projects. The company operates in the U.S., India, and the Philippines.
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Booz Allen Hamilton
Average Salary: $102,983
Booz Allen Hamilton offers competitive salaries for Instructional Designers. They develop training programs for government agencies. The company has offices in the U.S., Europe, and the Middle East.
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Amazon.com
Average Salary: $102,406
Amazon.com provides excellent opportunities for Instructional Designers. They create training programs for employees worldwide. Amazon has locations in the U.S., Europe, and Asia.
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SAIC
Average Salary: $99,375
SAIC offers rewarding positions for Instructional Designers. They focus on developing training solutions for government and commercial clients. The company operates in the U.S. and internationally.
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CACI International
Average Salary: $93,768
CACI International provides dynamic roles for Instructional Designers. They create training programs for government agencies. The company has offices in the U.S., Europe, and the Middle East.
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General Dynamics Information Technology
Average Salary: $87,668
General Dynamics Information Technology offers competitive salaries for Instructional Designers. They develop training programs for government and commercial clients. The company has locations in the U.S. and internationally.
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Chesterfield County Public Schools
Average Salary: $85,860
Chesterfield County Public Schools offers rewarding positions for Instructional Designers. They create training programs for educators and students. The school district operates in Virginia, U.S.
How to earn more as a Instructional Designer?
Instructional designers play a crucial role in creating effective learning experiences. They can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. One of the most effective ways is to gain specialized certifications. These credentials can demonstrate your expertise and dedication to the field. Another way is to expand your skill set. Learning new technologies and instructional methods can make you more valuable to employers. Networking with other professionals in the industry can also open up new job opportunities. Collaborating with subject matter experts can enhance the quality of your work. Finally, seeking out leadership roles can lead to higher salaries.
To maximize earnings, consider these factors:
- Obtain specialized certifications.
- Expand your skill set with new technologies and methods.
- Network with other professionals in the industry.
- Collaborate with subject matter experts.
- Seek out leadership roles.



