Are you considering a career in interior design? Do you want to know what the average interior designer salary is? Well, you've come to the right place! In this article, we will explore the average salary of interior designers in the United States. Money might not be everything, but why not do something you love and also get paid well for it?
Employee or Owner?
The first thing to consider is whether you want to be an employee or start your own design business. While owning a business generally means earning more money in the long run, there are pros and cons to both options. Business owners take on more responsibility and work longer hours, but they have more control. On the other hand, being an employee allows for a more balanced and less stressful lifestyle. Ultimately, the decision depends on your personal circumstances and priorities.
Experience Matters Less Than You Think
Unlike many other professions, experience doesn't have as much of an impact on an interior designer's salary. Clients typically hire interior designers based on their portfolio and creativity, rather than the number of years of experience they have. In fact, we've seen many designers make more money in their second or third year than seasoned designers with decades of experience. So, if you have the talent and can deliver what clients need, you can quickly reach the upper end of the salary scale.
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Average Interior Designer Salary as an Employee
If you choose to work as an employee for an established firm, the average starting salary for interior designers in the United States is around $50,000 to $60,000 per year. After about five years of experience, you can expect to make around $80,000 to $92,000. These figures are based on the average salary reported on GlassDoor, but it's important to note that salaries can vary. Some companies even offer salaries of $100,000 to $150,000, so keeping your options open can lead to better opportunities.
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Average Interior Designer Salary as a Business Owner
The earning potential as a business owner is significantly higher, but it depends on how you run your business. By managing costs, outsourcing tasks, and serving high-demand areas, you can increase your profit margin. However, keep in mind that it takes time to build a successful business, and the first year or two may be slow. On average, interior design business owners can expect to earn between $100,000 and $500,000 per year. Moreover, specializing in commercial interior design can lead to even higher earnings due to larger projects and budgets.
States with the Best Interior Designer Salaries
If you're looking for the highest-paying states for interior designers, focus on places like New York, California, Washington, and Florida. These states offer salaries that are 20-40% higher than the national average. Living closer to major cities within these states increases your earning potential, as there is a larger population to serve. Don't worry if you live in a smaller city, though. Some clients are willing to fly you out if they love your style.
How to Increase Your Salary as an Interior Designer
There are several ways to enhance your value as an interior designer and, consequently, earn a higher salary. Firstly, having a degree in a related field can give you an advantage when entering the industry. However, your portfolio is what truly speaks to clients and potential employers. It's essential to showcase a variety of styles that align with different companies' preferences. Many designers start by working for another firm to gain experience and build their portfolio. If you have aspirations of starting your own business in the future, don't be afraid to pursue that path, as long as you don't take clients with you when you leave your current company.
In conclusion, the average interior designer salary in the United States is influenced by various factors such as experience, employment status, location, and specialization. Whether you choose to work as an employee or start your own business, success in this field comes down to passion, creativity, and delivering exceptional results for your clients. So, if you have a knack for design, don't hesitate to pursue a career in interior design – you can do what you love and get paid well for it!
Note: The images used in this article are for illustrative purposes only and represent the work of talented interior designers. For more information, please visit Sanaulac.vn.
