When I first decided to pursue a career in interior design, I was excited about the creative possibilities and the potential for a fulfilling career. However, as I began to research interior design salaries by state, I realized that there was a lot of variability depending on where you live and work.
The Basics of Interior Design Salaries by State
Interior design salaries can vary widely depending on a number of factors, including your level of education and experience, the type of company you work for, and the location of your job. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for interior designers in May 2019 was $56,040, with the lowest 10 percent earning less than $31,970 and the highest 10 percent earning more than $96,470.
Factors Affecting Interior Design Salaries by State
While the national median salary for interior designers is useful information, it doesn’t give a complete picture of the variability in salaries by state. Some factors that can affect interior design salaries by state include:
- Cost of living
- Level of competition in the job market
- Demand for interior design services
- State and local regulations affecting the industry
Step-by-Step Guide for Current Trends on Interior Design Salaries by State
- Research the median interior design salary in your state.
- Compare that salary to the national median and to salaries in neighboring states.
- Consider the cost of living in your area and how it affects your salary.
- Research the job market in your area, including the level of competition and the demand for interior design services.
- Research state and local regulations affecting the industry, such as licensing requirements.
Top 10 Tips and Ideas on Interior Design Salaries by State
- Consider relocating to a state with a higher median interior design salary.
- Focus on building your experience and skills to increase your earning potential.
- Consider obtaining additional certifications or degrees to increase your value to potential employers.
- Network with other interior designers in your area to learn about job opportunities and industry trends.
- Consider specializing in a particular area of interior design, such as kitchen and bath design, to increase your earning potential.
- Research companies in your area to find those that offer competitive salaries and benefits.
- Create a strong portfolio that showcases your skills and experience to potential employers.
- Consider starting your own interior design business to have more control over your earning potential.
- Stay up-to-date on industry trends and new technologies to remain competitive in the job market.
- Consider taking on freelance or contract work to supplement your salary.
Pros and Cons of Interior Design Salaries by State
Pros
- Greater earning potential in states with higher median salaries
- Opportunities to specialize in a particular area of interior design
- Potential for job growth in the industry
Cons
- Cost of living can affect earning potential
- Competition for jobs can be high in some areas
- State and local regulations can affect the industry and salaries
My Personal Review on Interior Design Salaries by State
After researching interior design salaries by state and considering the pros and cons, I have decided to focus on building my experience and skills to increase my earning potential. While the median salary in my state is lower than in some neighboring states, I enjoy living here and want to stay in the area. I plan to network with other interior designers in the area, stay up-to-date on industry trends, and consider starting my own business in the future.
Question & Answer and FAQs
Q: Can interior designers work remotely?
A: Yes, many interior designers work remotely or on a freelance basis. However, some companies may prefer in-person work or require designers to work in a specific location.
Q: Do interior designers need to be licensed?
A: The requirements for licensing vary by state. Some states require interior designers to be licensed, while others do not. It’s important to research the requirements in your state and obtain any necessary certifications or licenses.
Q: What is the outlook for job growth in the interior design industry?
A: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of interior designers is projected to grow 4 percent from 2018 to 2028, about as fast as the average for all occupations.