Highest Paying States for Interior Design in 2025
When it comes to interior design, a profession that blends creativity, spatial planning, and client management to transform living and working spaces. Also known as interior decoration, it’s not just about picking colors—it’s about understanding how people live, work, and feel in a space. In 2025, where you work can make a huge difference in your paycheck. While many assume big cities like New York or LA are the top earners, the real winners are states with high demand, rising property values, and a culture that invests in custom spaces.
States like California, a hub for luxury homes, tech executives, and design-forward clients, consistently rank at the top. Designers there often charge premium rates because clients expect high-end finishes, smart home integration, and sustainable materials. New York, with its dense urban living and high-cost real estate, follows close behind. But don’t overlook Washington, where affluent communities in Seattle and the Puget Sound region demand tailored interiors. These areas don’t just pay more—they pay for expertise. A designer who can manage a full renovation from permits to lighting plans earns more than one who just picks paint.
What drives these salaries? It’s not just location—it’s the mix of client wealth, construction activity, and local regulations. In states with strict building codes or high labor costs, designers who navigate permits, contractors, and timelines efficiently get paid more. Freelancers in these areas also earn higher hourly rates because clients know good design saves money long-term—better layouts mean less wasted space, smarter storage cuts clutter, and quality materials last longer. And while entry-level designers might start at $40k, those with 5+ years of experience in high-demand states regularly hit $80k–$120k, especially if they specialize in kitchens, bathrooms, or luxury homes.
You’ll notice that many of the posts below focus on real-world design decisions—like where to put a fridge, how to remodel a bathroom for $10k, or whether modern or contemporary styles win out. Those aren’t just style tips—they’re the building blocks of high-value projects. The best designers don’t just have an eye for color; they know how to solve problems that save clients time, money, and stress. And in the highest paying states, those skills are in short supply—and priced accordingly.
Below, you’ll find practical guides on everything from budgeting a kitchen remodel to understanding commercial vs. residential construction. These aren’t random posts—they’re the exact topics clients ask about when they’re ready to spend serious money. If you’re thinking about leveling up your career, or just curious where the money is, this collection gives you the real picture—not just the hype.
Highest Paying US States for Interior Designer Salary (2025)
Discover which US states pay interior designers the most, see net effective salaries, licensing rules, and step‑by‑step tips to land high‑pay design jobs.
