How much does a Interior Designer make?
Interior designers create beautiful and functional spaces in homes, offices, and other buildings. They help with everything from color choices to furniture placement. They work to ensure that a space is both comfortable and stylish. The job often includes working with clients to understand their needs and preferences.
The average yearly salary for an interior designer is about $67,844. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and type of work. For example, those in the top 10% earn around $147,500 per year. Those just starting out may earn closer to $33,440 annually. Here are some common salary ranges:
- Bottom 10%: $33,440
- Top 10%: $147,500
- 75th percentile: $95,655
- Median: $64,547
What are the highest paying cities for a Interior Designer?

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Detroit, MI
Average Salary: $104,385
In Detroit, design professionals can find opportunities with companies like General Motors and Ford. The city’s resurgence offers a chance to shape modern spaces with a historical touch. Projects often blend innovation with respect for the area’s rich automotive heritage.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $101,115
San Francisco provides a vibrant backdrop for design careers. Working with tech giants like Google and Apple, designers create cutting-edge interiors. The city’s diverse culture and focus on sustainability influence the unique styles being crafted.
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Salt Lake City, UT
Average Salary: $99,678
Salt Lake City offers a mix of residential and commercial projects. Designers here enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, which allows for creative freedom. The city’s growing tech scene opens doors for innovative design solutions.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $93,407
In Washington, DC, political and cultural influences drive interior design trends. Designers work with a variety of clients, from government agencies to private firms. The city’s historic charm provides a unique setting for both traditional and modern designs.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $90,664
Sacramento presents a diverse range of projects in both residential and public sectors. The state capital’s growing population fuels demand for creative design solutions. Designers here often work on sustainable projects, reflecting the city’s environmental focus.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $89,182
Los Angeles offers a dynamic environment for designers. With a focus on entertainment and fashion, opportunities abound in upscale residential and commercial spaces. Working with celebrities and influencers, designers push the boundaries of style and innovation.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $88,297
San Diego’s sunny climate and coastal charm inspire unique interior designs. Designers here work on projects ranging from luxury resorts to high-tech offices. The city’s vibrant community and beautiful landscapes offer endless creative possibilities.
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Tucson, AZ
Average Salary: $86,835
Tucson combines desert beauty with modern design. Designers find opportunities in both residential and commercial sectors. The city’s unique climate and scenic backdrops provide a distinctive setting for innovative interior solutions.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $86,651
Boston offers a rich history and a bustling modern scene. Designers work on projects for educational institutions and historic buildings. The city’s academic and cultural influence drives a blend of traditional and contemporary design styles.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $86,369
Seattle’s tech-driven economy offers many design opportunities. Designers work with companies like Amazon and Microsoft, creating spaces that reflect the city’s innovative spirit. The scenic beauty of the Pacific Northwest inspires unique design elements.
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What are the best companies a Interior Designer can work for?

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LPA, Inc.
Average Salary: $131,887
LPA, Inc. offers top-tier Interior Designer positions. This company specializes in creating sustainable, innovative designs. It operates in several cities across the U.S., including New York, San Francisco, and Chicago.
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AECOM
Average Salary: $123,121
AECOM provides excellent opportunities for Interior Designers. This firm works on large-scale projects, focusing on architecture, engineering, and design. AECOM operates globally, with major offices in Los Angeles, London, and Sydney.
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Aire Serv Heating and Air Conditioning
Average Salary: $108,891
Aire Serv Heating and Air Conditioning hires Interior Designers for unique projects. This company blends interior design with HVAC services. It operates mainly in California, serving cities like Los Angeles and San Diego.
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Renuity
Average Salary: $107,500
Renuity offers rewarding positions for Interior Designers. This firm focuses on retail and commercial design. It operates in several states, with significant presence in New York and Texas.
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Ethan Allen Global, Inc.
Average Salary: $102,541
Ethan Allen Global, Inc. provides Interior Designer roles that focus on furniture design. This company specializes in home furnishings and interior design. It operates nationwide with major showrooms in New York and Chicago.
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Bray and Scarff
Average Salary: $98,400
Bray and Scarff offers competitive salaries for Interior Designers. This firm focuses on office and commercial spaces. It operates in several states, with a strong presence in Boston and Washington D.C.
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ZGF Architects
Average Salary: $98,330
ZGF Architects provides Interior Designer positions with good pay. This company works on a variety of projects, from commercial to residential. It operates in cities across the U.S., including Portland and Los Angeles.
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HDR
Average Salary: $97,220
HDR offers Interior Designer roles with solid compensation. This firm specializes in architecture, engineering, and consulting. It operates globally, with significant offices in Denver and New York.
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HGA
Average Salary: $96,041
HGA provides Interior Designer positions with good pay. This company focuses on architecture and engineering. It operates in several states, including Minnesota and Florida.
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Walter E. Smithe Furniture & Design
Average Salary: $94,167
Walter E. Smithe Furniture & Design offers Interior Designer roles with attractive salaries. This company specializes in furniture design and interior solutions. It operates in several cities, with a strong presence in New York.
How to earn more as a Interior Designer?
Interior Design offers a variety of ways to increase your earning potential. Expanding your skill set and experience can lead to higher-paying opportunities. Networking with professionals in the industry can open doors to better-paying jobs. Staying up-to-date with the latest design trends ensures your work remains competitive. Investing in marketing your services can attract more clients and higher-paying projects.
To earn more as an Interior Designer, focus on these key factors:
- Expand Skills: Learn new techniques and software. Specialize in areas like sustainable design or commercial spaces.
- Build Experience: Work on a variety of projects to build a strong portfolio. Consider internships or freelance work to gain diverse experience.
- Network: Attend industry events and connect with other designers. Join professional organizations to meet potential clients and collaborators.
- Stay Updated: Keep up with the latest design trends and technologies. Read industry publications and take continuing education courses.
- Market Yourself: Create a strong online presence. Use social media and professional websites to showcase your work and attract new clients.



