How much does a Interior Designer make?
Interior designers create beautiful and functional spaces for homes, businesses, and other buildings. They choose colors, furniture, and decorations that look nice and fit the space well. Knowing about their pay can help people decide if they want to become an interior designer. The average yearly salary for an interior designer is around $66,300. This means they usually make a decent amount of money each year.
Here are some details about their pay:
- About 15% of designers make between $35,000 and $44,091 a year.
- Another 15% make between $44,091 and $53,182 a year.
- 16% make between $53,182 and $62,273 a year.
- Another 16% make between $62,273 and $71,364 a year.
- 12% make between $71,364 and $80,455 a year.
- 6% make between $80,455 and $89,545 a year.
- About 5% make between $89,545 and $98,636 a year.
- About 5% make between $98,636 and $107,727 a year.
- About 2% make between $107,727 and $116,818 a year.
- About 2% make between $116,818 and $125,909 a year.
- The top 1% make over $125,909 a year.
What are the highest paying cities for a Interior Designer?

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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $89,625
In Washington, DC, professionals in this field enjoy a vibrant work environment. Opportunities exist with well-known firms such as Gensler and Perkins+Will. The city's historical architecture and government projects provide a unique backdrop for creative design.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $88,212
Los Angeles offers a dynamic setting for design enthusiasts. Companies like IDEO and Gensler are at the forefront. The diverse cultural scene and Hollywood influence bring a fresh perspective to interior design projects.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $87,664
San Francisco's tech-driven market presents exciting challenges. Designers here work with firms such as Heller Mason and Gensler. The blend of tech and tradition in the city's architecture makes for an intriguing design landscape.
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Hartford, CT
Average Salary: $86,068
Hartford offers a blend of historical charm and modern design. Opportunities exist with local firms like The Design Studio. The city's commitment to revitalization provides a fertile ground for innovative designs.
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Salt Lake City, UT
Average Salary: $85,532
In Salt Lake City, professionals enjoy a growing market. Firms such as Bates Masi + Associates are prominent. The city's natural beauty and outdoor culture influence design trends here.
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Philadelphia, PA
Average Salary: $81,996
Philadelphia offers a mix of history and modernity. Designers work with companies like Bohlin Cywinski Jackson. The city's rich history and diverse neighborhoods present unique design opportunities.
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Savannah, GA
Average Salary: $81,958
Savannah's historic charm attracts design talent. Local firms such as Design South provide opportunities. The city's well-preserved architecture and Southern hospitality create a unique design environment.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $81,676
Sacramento offers a growing market with opportunities at firms like DLR Group. The city’s blend of urban and natural landscapes provides a diverse range of design challenges.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $81,574
Boston's historic and educational roots provide a rich backdrop. Designers work with companies like Sasaki and Gensler. The city’s academic influence and rich history shape the design landscape.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $80,701
Seattle's tech-driven market offers exciting opportunities. Firms like ZGF Architects are prominent. The city's natural beauty and innovative spirit inspire unique interior design projects.
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What are the best companies a Interior Designer can work for?

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Closet Factory
Average Salary: $131,611
Closet Factory offers exciting opportunities for Interior Designers. They work on residential and commercial projects, focusing on custom closets and storage solutions. This company operates across the United States.
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AECOM
Average Salary: $125,504
AECOM provides a range of projects for Interior Designers. They work on large-scale projects for commercial and government clients. AECOM operates globally, offering diverse opportunities.
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Aire Serv
Average Salary: $107,971
Aire Serv offers Interior Designers the chance to work on facility management and design projects. They focus on commercial spaces, ensuring both aesthetics and functionality. Aire Serv operates throughout the United States.
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Renuity
Average Salary: $107,500
Renuity provides opportunities for Interior Designers in retail environments. They focus on creating engaging and functional retail spaces. Renuity operates primarily in the United States.
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Populous
Average Salary: $104,512
Populous offers Interior Designers the chance to work on sports and entertainment venues. They focus on creating immersive environments for fans. Populous operates globally, with offices in several countries.
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Arcadis
Average Salary: $102,279
Arcadis offers Interior Designers roles in various sectors, including commercial and industrial projects. They focus on sustainable design solutions. Arcadis operates in multiple countries around the world.
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HOK
Average Salary: $99,994
HOK provides Interior Designers with opportunities in architecture and design. They work on a wide range of projects, from healthcare to commercial spaces. HOK operates globally, with offices in several countries.
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Ethan Allen
Average Salary: $85,501
Ethan Allen offers Interior Designers roles in furniture design and retail. They focus on creating stylish and functional home environments. Ethan Allen operates across the United States.
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Colonial Marble
Average Salary: $85,045
Colonial Marble provides Interior Designers with opportunities in the fabrication and installation of stone and marble. They focus on high-end residential and commercial projects. Colonial Marble operates primarily in the United States.
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WRJ Design Associates, LTD
Average Salary: $82,308
WRJ Design Associates, LTD offers Interior Designers roles in residential and commercial design. They focus on creating elegant and functional spaces. This company operates in the United States.
How to earn more as a Interior Designer?
Aspiring interior designers can significantly increase their earnings through a variety of professional strategies. By focusing on key areas, designers can enhance their market value and, in turn, their income. One effective method is to specialize in a niche market such as commercial design, residential luxury, or healthcare environments. Specialization allows designers to cater to specific client needs and command higher fees. Additionally, gaining certifications from recognized organizations like the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) can boost credibility and attract high-paying clients.
Another important factor is investing in continuing education and staying updated with the latest design trends and technologies. Designers who keep their skills sharp and relevant can offer more value to clients, which can lead to better-paying projects. Networking within the industry also plays a crucial role. Building strong relationships with other professionals, such as architects, contractors, and real estate agents, can lead to referrals and larger projects. Furthermore, creating a compelling portfolio that showcases creativity and expertise can open doors to higher-end clients who are willing to pay a premium for unique design solutions.
Lastly, leveraging social media and online platforms to market oneself can greatly expand a designer's reach and client base. By sharing design projects and engaging with potential clients online, designers can attract opportunities that lead to increased earnings. Building an online presence allows designers to showcase their work to a global audience, making it easier to find and secure high-paying jobs.
Consider these factors to enhance earning potential:
- Specialize in a niche market
- Pursue certifications
- Continue education and stay updated
- Build a strong professional network
- Create a compelling portfolio and market online



