How Much Do Architects Make in Each State?

Sturdy, safe, attractive, and functional buildings are a crucial part of every community. Architects apply their skills to designing these structures to work, live, and enjoy themselves in healthy surroundings. While the competition for architecture jobs poses real challenges for new graduates, those who can find work can expect to earn a higher-than-average compensation as they gain more experience.

Job Description

Architect’s design structures and buildings, including office complexes, houses, sporting venues, and commercial spaces. An architect may be thoroughly involved with a construction process from beginning to end. For instance, an architect may design the project, work with a client to develop project goals, and be part of the team that supervises the project’s construction and hires contractors.

Educational Requirements

All states regulate the practice of architecture. According to the U.S. Department of BLS, architects need to earn at least a bachelor’s program in architecture, although many go on to hold master’s degrees. All states require prospective architects to complete at least a three-year internship before they can sit for the Architect Registration Examination. After passing the exam, the potential architect can apply for licensure in the state where he wants to work.

According to the BLS, thirty-five states require architects to graduate from a bachelor’s degree program that has been accredited by the NAAB (National Architectural Accrediting Board). Before enrolling to a program, check to make sure that its architecture program holds this accreditation.

As reported by the BLS, the median architect salary was $80,750 as of May 2019. This means that fifty percent of architects made more than this amount, while the other half earned less. A survey by PayScale.com concludes that architects with less than 5 years of experience made a median salary of $51,000 per annum.

Industry

Most architects work from either home or commercial offices. However, an architect can anticipate spending time visiting construction sites and on the road meeting with clients. Many architects work full time and may have to operate on weekends and evening hours to meet project requirements. The BLS notes that architectural projects are linked to fluctuations in the construction industry. This means that factors affecting construction, including labor issues, weather, and the economy, also affect architects’ work availability.

In some states, architects can legally conduct home inspections without obtaining a separate home inspection license. Some architects supplement their salaries by doing home inspections between projects.

[ Read: How to Be a Freelance Architect ]

How Much Do Architects Make

Careers in the U. S:

Architects can expect to make more as they gain experience in their field. A survey by PayScale.com shows the link between income and years on the job for architects:

0-5 years: $51,000
5-10 years: $65,000
10-20 years: $75,000
20+ years: $95,000

Careers in Europe:

A Part I architectural assistant has a salary in the range of £18,000 to £22,000, while Part II may get up to £35,000. A fully qualified architect earns between £32,000 and £45,000. A senior associate, partner, or director earns between £45,000 and £70,000. The salaries vary due to location and experience.

Careers in Asia:

An entry-level Design Architect with less than one year experience can expect to make an average total compensation (includes bonus, tips, and overtime pay) of ₹244,173. An early career Design Architect with 1-5 years of experience earns(1) an average total compensation of ₹301,283. A mid-career Design Architect with 5-10 years of experience earns an average total compensation of ₹614,664. An experienced Design Architect with 10-20 years of experience earns an average total compensation of ₹1,194,834. In their late-career (20 years and higher), employees earn an average total compensation of ₹1,800,000.

Job Growth Trend

The BLS estimates that the number of architecture jobs will increase by four percent between 2016 and 2026. This slower-than-average job growth predicts that there will be massive competition for available positions. There is a shift toward increased awareness of environmentally compatible architecture, so those architects who are experts in green design may have an easier time finding jobs.