US Interior Designer Wages: What You Really Earn in 2025
When you think about US interior designer wages, the average income for professionals who design residential and commercial spaces within the United States. Also known as interior design earnings, it varies wildly depending on location, experience, and whether you work for a firm or run your own business. This isn’t a job where you get paid the same everywhere—someone in New York City doesn’t make what someone in Omaha does, even if they do the same kind of work.
Most interior designers in the US earn between $45,000 and $75,000 a year, but the top 20% pull in over $100,000. Why? It’s not just about having good taste. It’s about knowing how to manage clients, handle budgets, source materials without getting ripped off, and understand building codes. The best designers don’t just pick paint colors—they negotiate with contractors, track timelines, and solve problems before they happen. That’s why freelance designers with a strong portfolio often make more than those working in big studios. And if you specialize in high-end residential projects or commercial spaces like hotels and restaurants, your earning potential jumps even higher.
Location matters more than you think. Cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Miami pay significantly more because the cost of living is higher and clients expect premium service. But don’t assume rural areas are low-paying—some designers in smaller towns charge more because they’re the only one offering full-service design. Certifications like NCIDQ can add $10,000 to $20,000 to your salary, and knowing how to use 3D rendering tools or sustainable design practices gives you a real edge. Even your niche plays a role: kitchens and bathrooms pay better than whole-house makeovers because they’re more complex and clients are willing to spend more.
What you see on Instagram isn’t the full picture. Those stunning before-and-afters? They’re the result of years of building trust, managing expectations, and delivering results. The designers making six figures didn’t start there—they built their reputation one client at a time, often working for free or cheap early on. Now, their work speaks for itself. If you’re thinking about this career, don’t just chase the salary. Chase the skills that make clients come back and refer others.
Below, you’ll find real breakdowns of what interior designers actually earn across the US, how experience changes pay, where the best opportunities are, and what skills make the biggest difference. No guesses. No fluff. Just the facts from people doing the work.
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.
