How much does a Interior Designer make?
Interior designers create beautiful, functional spaces. They make their money based on experience and location. Many interior designers start with a lower salary. As they gain experience, they can earn more. The average yearly salary for interior designers is about $66,316. This can change based on where they work and their skills.
Some interior designers earn less or more than the average. The bottom 10% earn less than $35,000. The top 10% earn more than $135,000. Most designers fall somewhere in the middle. Their earnings grow as they take on more projects and gain clients. Good designers can earn a comfortable living, especially in big cities. They need creativity, attention to detail, and good people skills.
What are the highest paying cities for a Interior Designer?

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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $93,108
In Washington, DC, professionals create designs that reflect the city’s rich history and modern trends. Companies like AECOM and Gensler offer chances to work on government and commercial projects.
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Hartford, CT
Average Salary: $93,020
Hartford, CT, provides a vibrant environment for design careers. Designers here work with firms like CBRE and The Carl Group on a mix of residential and commercial projects.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $90,620
Los Angeles offers a dynamic setting for designers to explore diverse styles. Working with companies such as Gensler and Wimberly Interiors can lead to exciting residential and entertainment projects.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $87,071
San Francisco is a hub for innovative design. Professionals here collaborate with top firms like Bohlin Cywinski Jackson and HDR on various high-profile projects in the tech and finance sectors.
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Salt Lake City, UT
Average Salary: $86,006
In Salt Lake City, designers enjoy a growing market with opportunities at companies such as Turner and SRG Partnership. They work on a mix of residential, commercial, and hospitality projects.
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Kansas City, MO
Average Salary: $82,699
Kansas City offers a balanced approach to design. Designers here can work with firms like Overland Partners and HOK on a variety of projects, from offices to residential spaces.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $82,409
Boston provides a rich cultural backdrop for design work. Designers here can find opportunities with companies like AECOM and Gensler, working on educational and corporate projects.
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Philadelphia, PA
Average Salary: $82,202
Philadelphia offers a mix of historic charm and modern design. Working with firms like Gensler and Bohlin Cywinski Jackson, designers can engage in both restoration and new construction projects.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $82,182
Sacramento offers a welcoming environment for design professionals. Designers here work with companies like Turner and SRG Partnership on government and commercial projects.
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Memphis, TN
Average Salary: $81,804
Memphis combines a rich cultural heritage with modern design trends. Designers here can find opportunities at firms like Overland Partners and HOK, working on diverse residential and commercial projects.
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What are the best companies a Interior Designer can work for?

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Closet Factory
Average Salary: $143,571
Closet Factory offers Interior Designer jobs with a focus on residential and commercial projects. They operate in multiple locations across the United States, including major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago.
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AECOM
Average Salary: $128,476
AECOM provides numerous opportunities for Interior Designers across various sectors. They have offices worldwide, including in London, Sydney, and Dubai, offering global project exposure.
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Renuity
Average Salary: $107,500
Renuity offers Interior Designer positions with a strong emphasis on sustainable design. They have offices in major U.S. cities such as San Francisco, Boston, and Dallas.
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Populous
Average Salary: $105,557
Populous specializes in sports and entertainment venue design. Interior Designers here work on high-profile projects. They have offices in cities like Denver, Shanghai, and Johannesburg.
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Aire Serv
Average Salary: $105,507
Aire Serv offers Interior Designer jobs with a focus on healthcare facilities. They have locations in several U.S. cities including Houston, Miami, and Atlanta.
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Arcadis
Average Salary: $102,273
Arcadis provides Interior Designer opportunities in infrastructure projects. They operate in cities like Philadelphia, Singapore, and Zurich.
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HOK
Average Salary: $101,822
HOK offers Interior Designer roles in architectural and engineering projects. They have offices in cities like New York, San Francisco, and Tokyo.
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Ethan Allen
Average Salary: $87,282
Ethan Allen provides Interior Designer jobs focused on furniture and home design. They have locations in major U.S. cities including Kansas City and North Carolina.
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HDR
Average Salary: $85,873
HDR offers Interior Designer positions in various sectors, including education and healthcare. They have offices in cities like Omaha, Miami, and Brisbane.
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Corgan
Average Salary: $83,729
Corgan provides Interior Designer jobs with a focus on commercial projects. They have locations in cities like Phoenix, Dallas, and Washington D.C.
How to earn more as a Interior Designer?
Interior designers can increase their earnings by leveraging a variety of strategies. Specialization in a niche market can set a designer apart and attract higher-paying clients. For instance, focusing on residential designs for luxury homes or commercial projects for corporate offices can lead to better compensation. Staying updated with the latest design trends and technologies also enhances a designer's value. This continuous learning ensures that services remain competitive and appealing to clients.
Building a strong portfolio showcasing diverse projects can make a designer more attractive to potential clients. Networking within the industry and attending relevant events can open doors to new opportunities and higher-paying jobs. Moreover, establishing partnerships with contractors, real estate agents, and other professionals can lead to more referrals and increased income. Effective marketing through social media and professional websites can also boost visibility and attract high-paying clients. By focusing on these areas, interior designers can effectively boost their earnings.
Here are five key factors that can help an interior designer earn more:
- Specialize in a niche market
- Stay updated with the latest design trends
- Build a strong and diverse portfolio
- Network within the industry
- Effective marketing through online platforms



