How much does a Interior Designer make?
Interior designers create beautiful and functional spaces. They work on projects in homes, offices, and other buildings. The average yearly salary for an interior designer is around $66,189. This means that many designers earn a good living. The salary can vary based on experience, location, and the type of projects they work on.
Interior designers often start with a lower salary. As they gain more experience, their salary can increase. Here are some common salary ranges for different levels of experience:
- Entry-level: $35,000 to $43,864
- Mid-level: $52,727 to $70,455
- Senior-level: $79,318 to $132,500
What are the highest paying cities for a Interior Designer?

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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $88,663
In Washington, DC, professionals create designs that reflect the city's rich history and modern needs. Working with government agencies and historic preservation groups offers unique challenges and opportunities. Notable firms include SmithGroup and Clark Nexsen.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $86,693
Los Angeles offers a vibrant environment for those in the design field. The city's diverse culture and entertainment industry influence design trends. Companies like Gensler and Perkins+Will provide dynamic work experiences.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $85,994
San Francisco's tech-driven environment brings a modern twist to design. The city's innovative spirit and architectural landmarks create a stimulating work setting. Firms such as HOK and Skidmore, Owings & Merrill offer exciting projects.
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Little Rock, AR
Average Salary: $85,618
Little Rock provides a smaller city feel with a growing design market. The city's blend of tradition and progress offers a unique backdrop for design work. Local firms like DLR Group and AECOM provide opportunities to grow.
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Hartford, CT
Average Salary: $84,268
Hartford offers a mix of historic charm and modern design trends. The city's insurance sector and educational institutions create diverse design needs. Companies like CannonDesign and Perkins Eastman offer varied projects.
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Salt Lake City, UT
Average Salary: $84,142
Salt Lake City's scenic beauty and outdoor lifestyle influence design choices. The city's growing tech scene adds a modern edge to projects. Firms like HDR and Stantec provide a range of opportunities.
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Rochester, MN
Average Salary: $83,071
Rochester combines a small-town feel with a strong healthcare focus. The city's medical institutions and historic architecture present interesting design challenges. Local firms like Hammel, Green and Abrahamson offer meaningful work.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $81,739
Sacramento offers a blend of urban and natural environments. The city's government presence and agricultural roots create unique design opportunities. Companies like DLR Group and AECOM provide diverse projects.
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Philadelphia, PA
Average Salary: $81,051
Philadelphia's rich history and vibrant culture influence design trends. The city's diverse architecture and urban settings offer exciting challenges. Firms like Gensler and HOK provide dynamic work experiences.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $81,021
Seattle's tech industry and natural beauty shape the design landscape. The city's innovative spirit and outdoor lifestyle create a unique work environment. Companies like Bohlin Cywinski Jackson and ZGF Architects offer exciting projects.
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What are the best companies a Interior Designer can work for?

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AECOM
Average Salary: $139,740
AECOM offers exciting Interior Designer jobs with a focus on sustainability and innovation. They operate globally, with major offices in the United States, Europe, and Asia.
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Closet Factory
Average Salary: $125,905
Closet Factory provides Interior Designer positions that focus on custom storage solutions. They have locations across the United States, including California, Texas, and Florida.
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Renuity
Average Salary: $107,500
Renuity offers Interior Designer jobs with a focus on healthcare environments. They operate in several states across the U.S., including New York, California, and Illinois.
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Populous
Average Salary: $102,847
Populous provides Interior Designer roles with a focus on sports and entertainment venues. They have offices in North America, Europe, and Asia.
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Arcadis
Average Salary: $102,047
Arcadis offers Interior Designer jobs with a focus on sustainable design. They operate in multiple countries, including the U.S., the UK, and the Netherlands.
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HOK
Average Salary: $100,346
HOK provides Interior Designer positions with a focus on architecture and design. They have offices in North America, Europe, and the Middle East.
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Aire Serv
Average Salary: $98,309
Aire Serv offers Interior Designer jobs with a focus on commercial spaces. They operate in several states across the U.S., including California, Texas, and Florida.
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Colonial Marble
Average Salary: $86,977
Colonial Marble provides Interior Designer roles with a focus on luxury interiors. They have offices in the United States, including New York and California.
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Corgan
Average Salary: $86,668
Corgan offers Interior Designer jobs with a focus on healthcare and education facilities. They operate in several states across the U.S., including California and Texas.
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Ethan Allen
Average Salary: $83,360
Ethan Allen provides Interior Designer positions with a focus on furniture design. They have locations in the United States, including New York and California.
How to earn more as a Interior Designer?
Interior designers can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. Building a strong portfolio that showcases diverse projects and innovative design solutions can attract high-paying clients. Networking with other professionals in the industry can lead to referrals and larger projects. Specializing in a niche, such as commercial design or sustainable practices, can also command higher fees. Investing in continuing education and certifications can enhance skills and open up more lucrative opportunities. Finally, establishing a personal brand and marketing oneself effectively can differentiate an interior designer from competitors and lead to higher-paying engagements.
To maximize earnings, interior designers should consider the following factors:
- Portfolio Development: Create a strong portfolio that highlights a range of projects and innovative design ideas.
- Networking: Connect with other industry professionals to gain referrals and larger projects.
- Specialization: Focus on a niche area to attract clients willing to pay a premium for specialized expertise.
- Education and Certification: Pursue continuing education and certifications to improve skills and marketability.
- Branding and Marketing: Develop a personal brand and market oneself effectively to stand out in the industry.



