Interior Designer

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics tracks interior designers under SOC code 27-1025. As of May 2025 OEWS data, the median annual wage is $67,190 ($32.31/hr), with 71,500 workers employed nationwide. BLS projects employment to grow 3.2% from 2024 to 2034, with about 7,800 openings expected each year. Key Takeaways Median pay: $67,190 per year ($32.31/hr)Top 10% earn: more than $114,140 per year ($54.87/hr)Entry-level (bottom 10%): under $41,420 per year ($19.91/hr)Projected growth: 3.2% from 2024 to 2034Annual job openings: ~7,800 per year through 2034Workers employed nationwide: 71,500Highest-paying state: District of Columbia (median $98,450)State with most workers: California (8,500 employed) Sources: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025; BLS Employment Projections, 2024-2034. Last reviewed July 24, 2026. Quick answer: Training as an interior designer usually takes about 2 to 4 years of education. You complete an associate or bachelor’s degree (programs typically cost $6,000 to $25,000), build a strong portfolio, gain experience through internships or assistant roles, and can earn the optional NCIDQ Certified Interior Designer credential from CIDQ. Certification is voluntary in many states but required in some that regulate the title. The median interior designer salary is $67,190 per year ($32.31/hour), and employers post about 7,800 openings nationwide each year (BLS, May 2025). Interior designers use color, lighting, materials, and furniture to make spaces both functional and visually appealing. They work on homes, offices, hotels, retail stores, and more, shaping how people experience the rooms they spend time in. How to Become an Interior Designer Most interior designers enter the field after about two to four years of education, depending on the degree level they choose. There is no single national license, though some states regulate the title and require certification. You build the career through education, a strong portfolio, hands-on experience, and an optional professional credential. Earn a High School Diploma or GED A high school diploma or GED is the starting point for nearly every interior design program. Before you enroll, build the skills the work depends on. Art and drawing classes develop your eye for proportion, color, and composition. Math, especially geometry, helps with scale drawings and space planning, while basic physics and building-science topics make later coursework on lighting and materials easier to follow. Computer-design or drafting electives are valuable because professional interior design runs on software, so any early exposure to tools like AutoCAD or SketchUp gives you a head start. Get comfortable with general computer and presentation software too, since you will spend a lot of time building mood boards, renderings, and client presentations. If you are changing careers and already hold a diploma or another degree, you can move straight to choosing a program. Many strong designers come from unrelated fields and bring useful skills in communication, budgeting, and project management. Complete an Interior Design Program This is the core of your training. An associate degree takes about two years and can lead to entry-level or assistant roles, while a bachelor's degree takes about four years and is the most common route into professional design positions. When comparing schools, look for accreditation by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA), which reviews programs against recognized curriculum and faculty standards that many employers value. Typical coursework covers design fundamentals and color theory, space planning, computer-aided design and 3D modeling, lighting, textiles and materials, building codes, and accessibility standards. Many programs also build in studio projects so you graduate with real work to show. A growing number of certificate and degree programs are available online or in hybrid formats, which lets working students learn at a flexible pace. Whatever format you choose, confirm the program's accreditation before you enroll, since a CIDA-accredited degree also helps if you later pursue NCIDQ certification. Build a Strong Portfolio In interior design, your portfolio often matters as much as your degree. Employers and clients want to see what you can actually produce, so collect your best work as you go. Save studio projects, floor plans, mood boards, 3D renderings, and any real or volunteer projects you complete. Show range by including different room types and styles, and show technical skill by including CAD drawings and detailed material selections alongside finished visuals. If you have not had paid work yet, design concepts for friends, redesign a room in your own home, or take on small volunteer projects for community spaces to fill out the portfolio. Present it cleanly, both as a polished PDF and as a simple website, since hiring managers frequently review portfolios online. A well-organized portfolio that explains your design thinking, not just the final look, is one of the strongest ways to stand out in a competitive field. Gain Work Experience Coursework and a portfolio open the door, but real experience is what builds a career. Look for an internship while you are still in school, since many programs help place students with design firms, architecture offices, or furniture and staging companies. After graduation, entry-level and assistant designer roles let you practice the parts of the job that school cannot fully teach: coordinating with contractors and vendors, sourcing furniture and finishes within a budget, managing timelines, and working directly with clients. Pay attention to how senior designers handle client expectations and project changes, because client management is a major part of the work. Each project also gives you new pieces for your portfolio and references for future jobs. Over time, this experience is what qualifies you for the work hours that the NCIDQ certification requires and for more senior positions. Consider NCIDQ Certification The most recognized credential in the field is the NCIDQ Certified Interior Designer certification, issued by the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ / CIDQ). In many states it is voluntary, but some states that regulate the interior design title or practice require it, so check your state's rules early. To qualify, you generally need a combination of interior design education and documented professional experience, then you pass the NCIDQ examination, which tests areas like building codes, construction standards, and professional practice. Even where it is optional, the credential signals expertise and can support higher pay and senior roles. Joining a professional association such as the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) is also worth considering, since associations offer continuing education, networking, and job leads. Together, certification and a professional network help you move from entry-level work into established designer and leadership positions. Compare training programs near you Browse program lengths, formats, and start dates from accredited schools that match your goals. See programs near you ↑ What Interior Designers Do Interior designers plan and furnish residential, commercial, and industrial spaces. They create designs that are functional, safe, and visually appealing, often using computer-aided design (CAD) and 3D modeling software to develop and present their ideas. Typical Responsibilities Meet with clients to discuss project goals, style, and budgetDevelop design concepts and mood boardsSelect color palettes, furniture, lighting, and materialsPrepare drawings, blueprints, and presentationsCoordinate with architects, contractors, and vendorsEnsure designs meet building codes and accessibility standards The best interior designers combine creativity with strong technical and communication skills. Key Skills and Traits for Success Strong sense of style and creativityExcellent spatial awareness and visualizationKnowledge of design software (AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp)Understanding of architecture and safety codesGood communication and project managementAttention to detail and problem-solving ability Common Work Settings Interior design firmsArchitecture and engineering officesReal estate and staging companiesFurniture manufacturersFreelance and self-employed designers Education and Certification Paths Pathway Typical Duration Outcome Associate Degree 2 years Entry-level drafting or assistant roles Bachelor’s Degree 4 years Professional interior designer NCIDQ Certification After degree + experience Advanced credential Master’s in Interior Architecture 2 years Specialization or teaching roles Career Growth and Advancement Projected job growth for interior designers Use this chart on your site (free) This chart is free to republish. Copy the code below; it credits TradeCareerPath.com with a link back to this page. Chart by TradeCareerPath.com Experienced Interior Designers Can Move Into Roles Such As Design Director or Senior DesignerCommercial Space PlannerProject ManagerFurniture or Lighting DesignerDesign Firm Owner / Freelancer Designers with strong digital visualization and sustainability skills are in especially high demand. Cost and Duration of Training Program Cost: varies by school, format and location depending on degree and schoolDuration: 2 to 4 yearsCertification Exam: NCIDQ, typically $400 to $700 Pros and Cons Pros Creative and rewarding workHigh flexibility and freelance optionsStrong demand in commercial and sustainable designPotential for higher earnings with experience Cons Competitive industryIrregular hours and tight deadlinesInitial certification costs Interior Designer Salary by State BLS OEWS, May 2025 Filter states State Median annual Top 10% annual Idaho N/A N/A Nevada N/A N/A Wyoming $96,100 $145,600 District of Columbia $98,450 $140,870 Arkansas $69,990 $137,160 Vermont $63,870 $136,150 New Jersey $74,020 $134,780 Colorado $78,390 $133,810 Illinois $76,290 $131,990 California $80,230 $131,770 New York $75,580 $125,620 South Dakota $65,220 $124,490 Georgia $71,760 $123,820 Massachusetts $80,110 $123,100 Hawaii $63,780 $121,480 Iowa $58,040 $118,770 Connecticut $67,330 $117,610 Alaska $63,320 $114,740 Washington $76,570 $109,820 Oklahoma $68,520 $105,380 Oregon $66,350 $104,040 Texas $65,160 $103,850 Ohio $61,410 $103,530 Missouri $59,610 $103,440 Alabama $61,050 $103,030 Minnesota $73,270 $103,010 Tennessee $63,660 $101,460 South Carolina $63,790 $101,360 North Carolina $61,400 $100,450 Nebraska $64,870 $100,200 Virginia $62,560 $100,030 Rhode Island $58,100 $99,990 Wisconsin $62,740 $99,940 Maryland $65,070 $99,330 Arizona $61,460 $97,850 Pennsylvania $62,400 $97,820 Kentucky $59,240 $97,470 Michigan $59,340 $97,400 New Hampshire $64,140 $97,070 Florida $60,860 $96,930 Utah $61,740 $96,590 Indiana $62,580 $94,750 Kansas $61,090 $94,380 Maine $63,830 $93,840 New Mexico $60,850 $90,540 Mississippi $43,740 $88,710 Delaware $60,360 $86,890 Montana $61,770 $86,070 North Dakota $59,190 $84,960 Louisiana $60,610 $81,280 West Virginia $49,800 $77,510 Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025. Top salaries often go to designers specializing in luxury residential, hospitality, or corporate interiors. Quick Facts: Interior Designer Salary, Education, and Outlook Median Pay $67,190 $32.31/hr Top 10%: $114,140 Job Outlook (2024-2034) 3.2% 7,800 openings/yr Employment (2025) 71,500 Wage Percentiles 25th $51,840 75th $85,740 Typical Education Bachelor's degree in Interior Design or related field On-the-Job Training None Highest Paying States District of ColumbiaWyomingCalifornia Top Industries Cross-industry Certification Optional (NCIDQ Certification) 2025 data | SOC 27-1025 | Source: BLS OEWS What interior designers earn across the pay scale Use this chart on your site (free) This chart is free to republish. Copy the code below; it credits TradeCareerPath.com with a link back to this page. Chart by TradeCareerPath.com Industry Organizations & Certifying Bodies These are the recognized national organizations, unions, certifying bodies, and regulatory authorities that shape this trade. They issue the credentials, sponsor the apprenticeships, publish the codes, and represent workers and employers. National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ / CIDQ) Issues the NCIDQ Certified Interior Designer credential used in most states with regulation.American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) Major U.S. interior design professional association.Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) Accredits interior design degree programs. Wage and Employment Charts Top-paying states for interior designers Use this chart on your site (free) This chart is free to republish. Copy the code below; it credits TradeCareerPath.com with a link back to this page. Chart by TradeCareerPath.com Ready to start training? See accredited programs, request info, and compare start dates from schools that fit your goals. Get matched with programs ↑ Start Your Interior Design Career Today Interior design is a career where art meets function. If you are passionate about creating spaces people love to live and work in, now is a good time to start your training. Find Interior Design Schools Near You Frequently Asked Questions How long does interior designer training take? Most people spend about 2 to 4 years on education, depending on whether they pursue an associate degree (about 2 years) or a bachelor's degree (about 4 years). After school, building a portfolio and gaining work experience continues over the first few years on the job. Do you need a college degree to work as an interior designer? Many employers prefer a degree in interior design or a related field, and a bachelor's degree is the most common path into professional roles. An associate degree can lead to entry-level or assistant positions. A high school diploma or GED is the baseline starting point. How much does interior design training cost? Program costs generally range from about varies by school, format and location depending on the degree level, school, and format. The optional NCIDQ certification exam typically adds a fee of roughly $400 to $700. Is NCIDQ certification required to be an interior designer? In many states certification is voluntary, but some states that regulate the title or practice require the NCIDQ Certified Interior Designer credential from CIDQ. Even where it is optional, NCIDQ certification can strengthen your resume and support higher pay. Check your state's rules before you plan your path. Is it hard to train as an interior designer? The field is competitive, and a strong portfolio matters as much as your degree. The work combines creativity with technical skills like CAD, space planning, and building codes, plus client communication and deadline management. Entry is accessible through education, but standing out takes practice and good sample work. Can you study interior design online? Yes. Many colleges offer interior design certificate and degree programs online or in hybrid formats, which helps working students learn at a flexible pace. Before enrolling, confirm the program's accreditation, ideally through the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA). How many interior designers work in the United States? BLS reports approximately 71,500 interior designers employed nationwide as of May 2025, with about 7,800 openings projected each year over the 2024 to 2034 period. How Interior Designer Pay Compares to Similar Trades Side-by-side comparison of Interior Designer and the closest related careers, based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data (May 2025 OEWS + 2024-2034 Employment Projections). Career Median Pay 10-Year Growth Annual Openings Interior Designer this guide $67,190 +3.2% 7,800 Floral Designer $37,360 -5.9% 5,100 Flooring Installer $56,460 +9.5% 2,700 Carpentry $60,580 +4.5% 74,100 Home Inspector $74,690 -0.8% 14,800 Source: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics + BLS Employment Projections. Related Careers Floral DesignerFlooring InstallerCarpentryHome InspectorJewelry Design and Repair Advance Your Career with a Degree Experienced Interior Designer professionals often step up into degree-track careers where field experience is a hiring advantage: Architect - median pay $99,280 (BLS OEWS, May 2025); requires a 4-year degreeLandscape Architect - median pay $79,870 (BLS OEWS, May 2025); requires a 4-year degree See all trade careers that require a 4-year degree. Sources U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2025)U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections 2024-2034U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses (2023-2024, Table R98)U.S. Department of Labor, Wage and Hour Division, Davis-Bacon General Wage Determinations (2026) Interior Designer Salary by State BLS OEWS, May 2025 Filter states State Median annual Top 10% annual Idaho N/A N/A Nevada N/A N/A Wyoming $96,100 $145,600 District of Columbia $98,450 $140,870 Arkansas $69,990 $137,160 Vermont $63,870 $136,150 New Jersey $74,020 $134,780 Colorado $78,390 $133,810 Illinois $76,290 $131,990 California $80,230 $131,770 New York $75,580 $125,620 South Dakota $65,220 $124,490 Georgia $71,760 $123,820 Massachusetts $80,110 $123,100 Hawaii $63,780 $121,480 Iowa $58,040 $118,770 Connecticut $67,330 $117,610 Alaska $63,320 $114,740 Washington $76,570 $109,820 Oklahoma $68,520 $105,380 Oregon $66,350 $104,040 Texas $65,160 $103,850 Ohio $61,410 $103,530 Missouri $59,610 $103,440 Alabama $61,050 $103,030 Minnesota $73,270 $103,010 Tennessee $63,660 $101,460 South Carolina $63,790 $101,360 North Carolina $61,400 $100,450 Nebraska $64,870 $100,200 Virginia $62,560 $100,030 Rhode Island $58,100 $99,990 Wisconsin $62,740 $99,940 Maryland $65,070 $99,330 Arizona $61,460 $97,850 Pennsylvania $62,400 $97,820 Kentucky $59,240 $97,470 Michigan $59,340 $97,400 New Hampshire $64,140 $97,070 Florida $60,860 $96,930 Utah $61,740 $96,590 Indiana $62,580 $94,750 Kansas $61,090 $94,380 Maine $63,830 $93,840 New Mexico $60,850 $90,540 Mississippi $43,740 $88,710 Delaware $60,360 $86,890 Montana $61,770 $86,070 North Dakota $59,190 $84,960 Louisiana $60,610 $81,280 West Virginia $49,800 $77,510 Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025.