Architecture Salaries, Explained: Breaking Down the Numbers by Region & Role
Struggling to figure out what salary to expect in your first architecture job? You’re not alone.
Whether you're a soon to be graduate, an intern hunting for your first offer, or an emerging designer ready to level up, understanding what’s normal is a game changer. Salary transparency helps you make informed decisions, advocate for your worth, and feel more confident navigating the early stages of your career.
This guide breaks down entry level architecture salaries across the U.S., outlines the roles you might step into, and shows you how to negotiate with clarity and confidence.
Entry-Level Architecture Salaries by Region (0–3 Years Experience)
One of the biggest influences on your starting salary is geography. A junior designer in New York will almost always earn more than one in Nashville, but the cost of living might eat up that difference entirely.
Here’s a snapshot of average starting salaries across the U.S.:
Region Average Starting Salary
Northeast (NYC, Boston) $58,000–$72,000
West Coast (LA, SF, Seattle) $60,000–$75,000
Midwest (Chicago, Minneapolis) $52,000–$65,000
South (Houston, Atlanta, Dallas) $50,000–$63,000
Mountain West (Denver, Phoenix) $52,000–$66,000
Las Vegas $50,000–$62,000
Pro tip: A higher salary doesn’t always mean more buying power. Always consider rent, taxes, transportation, and other living expenses to evaluate your real take home value.
Common Entry-Level Roles & What They Pay
Not every new graduate steps into the same title. Depending on the firm, your responsibilities and your region, the name on your offer letter might vary but here’s a general idea of what early career roles pay:
Role Typical Salary Range
Intern Architect / Designer I $50,000–$62,000
Designer II / Junior Architect $60,000–$70,000
Job Captain $65,000–$80,000
Project Architect (Licensed). $72,000–$90,000
Project Manager $80,000–$100,000+
Licensure bonus: Getting licensed can increase your salary by 10–20%, especially at firms that offer structured licensure support or tiered title systems.
What Actually Impacts Your Architecture Salary
Your degree is important but it’s not the only factor. Here’s what actually influences your pay:
Location: Cities with higher living costs usually pay more (but not always proportionally).
Firm Type: Large corporate firms often pay more than boutique studios or nonprofits but may come with different cultures or expectations.
Licensure Status: Many firms offer raises, bonuses, or title shifts once you become licensed.
Software Skills: Proficiency in tools like Revit, Rhino, Enscape, AutoCAD, and BIM workflows can make you more valuable to hiring teams.
Design Specialties: If you have experience in sustainability, healthcare, historic preservation, or visualization, those niche skills can give you an edge.
Soft Skills: Don’t underestimate the value of communication, professionalism, and collaboration. The ability to speak clearly about your design process and work well with clients or consultants is a leadership trait in the making.
Your soft skills are your superpower. They help move you from "designer" to "future firm leader."
How to Approach Salary Negotiation (Even Early in Your Career)
Negotiating your first salary can feel awkward but it’s one of the most important conversations you'll have. And you can absolutely do it with confidence and professionalism, even if you’re just starting out.
What You Should Do:
Do your homework. Research the salary range for your city, role, and experience level. (Use resources like the AIA Compensation Report, Glassdoor, and Archinect.)
Ask for a range, not a number.
“Based on my research and the scope of this role, I’m targeting $65K–$70K.”Evaluate the full package. Consider benefits, bonuses, paid time off, licensure support, office culture, and growth potential, not just the base salary.
Practice ahead of time. Rehearse with a mentor or friend so you feel grounded when the conversation happens.
What to Avoid:
Underselling yourself. Avoid phrases like “Whatever you think is fair” or “I’m just happy to be here.”
Accepting on the spot. Always ask for time to review the offer, especially if it comes with a deadline.
Comparing to friends. Every offer is unique based on firm type, location, and role.
You’re not being greedy. You’re setting the tone for how your work is valued.
Know Your Worth
Architecture is often seen as a passion profession but that doesn’t mean you should accept low pay or lack transparency.
Whether you're about to graduate or preparing to negotiate your first raise, understanding the numbers is the first step toward owning your career path.
You’ve worked hard. You’ve built real skills. And you deserve to feel informed and empowered as you step into the profession.
You’ve got this, and you don’t have to figure it all out alone.
