Interior Designers Salaries: How Much Do They Get Paid?

Introduction

Interior design is a profession that involves creating aesthetically pleasing and functional spaces for homes, businesses, and other types of organizations. Interior designers are responsible for selecting furniture, colors, textures, and other elements to create a space that reflects the client’s needs and preferences. The role of an interior designer requires creativity, problem-solving skills, and knowledge of current trends and design styles. This article will explore how much interior designers get paid and examine factors that influence their salaries.

Average Salaries for Interior Designers

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for interior designers was $54,370 in May 2019.1 This figure can vary depending on the field of interior design and type of job. For example, the median wage for residential interior designers was $51,500 while commercial interior designers earned a median wage of $56,100.1

Experience and education level also have an impact on interior designers’ salaries. BLS data showed that those with more than five years of experience earned a median wage of $64,000 compared to those with one to four years of experience, who earned a median wage of $47,000.1 Additionally, the highest-paid 10 percent of interior designers earned at least $86,490 per year, while the lowest-paid 10 percent earned less than $32,220.1

Highest-Paying Cities for Interior Designers

The location of a job can affect interior designers’ salaries. According to BLS data, the highest-paying metropolitan areas for interior designers include New York City ($90,140), San Francisco ($87,440), and Los Angeles ($85,480).1 These cities offer higher wages due to their high cost of living and high demand for interior designers. Working in these cities also provides access to a wider range of design opportunities and resources.

In addition to these major metropolitan areas, smaller cities often offer higher pay for interior designers. According to a salary survey conducted by the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), the top-paying cities for interior designers include Anchorage, Alaska ($80,200); Honolulu, Hawaii ($77,700); and Boston, Massachusetts ($76,100).2 This survey also found that interior designers in the Midwest generally earned lower salaries than their counterparts in other regions of the country.

Earning Potential of Freelance Interior Designers

Freelance interior designers have the potential to earn higher salaries than those employed by firms or companies. This is because freelance designers are able to set their own rates and charge clients based on the scope of the project. However, freelance designers may face challenges when it comes to finding and securing clients. In addition, freelance designers must manage their own taxes and expenses, which can be time consuming.

Despite these challenges, many interior designers choose to pursue freelance work due to the flexibility it provides. Freelance designers have the freedom to decide when and where they work, allowing them to take on projects that align with their interests and values. Additionally, they have the opportunity to build relationships with clients and establish a reputation in the industry.

Economic Fluctuations and Interior Design Salaries

Economic fluctuations can also affect interior designers’ salaries. During economic downturns, companies may reduce budgets and decrease spending on design projects, resulting in fewer job opportunities and lower pay. Additionally, the cost of materials and services may increase, making it difficult for designers to remain competitive.

To manage the effects of economic fluctuations, designers should focus on building strong relationships with clients and staying up-to-date on industry trends. Additionally, designers can look for new sources of income, such as teaching or consulting, that can supplement their income during slow periods.

Benefits of Working as an Interior Designer

Despite the challenges associated with being an interior designer, there are many benefits to the profession. Interior design is a growing field with a bright outlook. According to the BLS, employment of interior designers is projected to grow 4 percent from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations.1

Additionally, interior designers have the opportunity to express their creativity and use their skills to make a positive impact on their clients’ lives. Many designers find satisfaction in the process of transforming a space and bringing their clients’ visions to life.

Conclusion

Interior designers play an important role in creating functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces for homes, businesses, and other organizations. The salary of an interior designer depends on factors such as experience, education level, location, and economic fluctuations. The highest-paying cities for interior designers are located in major metropolitan areas, but smaller cities can also offer higher wages. Freelance designers have the potential to earn higher salaries, but they must manage their own taxes and expenses. Despite the challenges, working as an interior designer has many rewards, including the opportunity to express creativity and make an impact on people’s lives.