Interior Designer Salary and Bonuses
The average interior designer salary varies widely depending on the location and years of experience. In this article, we’ll discuss the average salary and bonuses, what education is required, and the career path. If you want to become an interior designer, here are some tips to get you on the road to financial security. In addition to a good salary, you’ll also be rewarded with many benefits.
Average salary
The average salary of an interior designer varies greatly across the country. A 2013 study by Simply Hired showed that the average salary of an interior designer in New York was $32,000, while the salary in the South was $28,000. The same study showed that salaries varied across other regions of the country, with a range between $29,000 and $41,000.
The highest salaries for interior designers are found in areas like the mountain west, New England, and the west coast. In addition to their high salaries, interior designers in these regions also enjoy a high cost of living. Although these regions have a high demand for their designers, salaries can be slightly lower, as there are fewer jobs. However, if you have a flair for design and enjoy solving problems, you might find that the high salary is worth the cost of living.
Bonuses
Interior designers often receive bonuses for their work. Depending on their experience and the size of their company, they may receive a bonus of between $500 and $3000 a year. Typically, these bonuses are a result of markups that are tacked on to the retail price of the furniture they recommend or purchase for their clients. These markups can range anywhere from 1 to 35 percent.
Generally, Interior Designers with ten or more years of experience earn around 4,520 EUR per month, while those with five to ten years of experience can expect to earn 5,340 EUR per month. Obviously, the longer you’ve been in the industry, the more you’ll make.
Education required
To become an interior designer, you’ll need a combination of education and experience. An associate degree will train you in the basics of architecture, construction, design theory, history, communication, and business, and an advanced certificate will provide you with the necessary trade tools. There are also a variety of entry-level and advanced apprenticeship options.
To increase your earning potential, it’s helpful to have additional certification or educational background. According to the BLS, interior designers with a bachelor’s degree will make more than a non-certificated individual. They’ll also be knowledgeable about energy efficiency and green building practices. This knowledge will help you attract new clients and earn a higher salary.
Career path
Interior design is a versatile career with a range of job opportunities. Many interior designers work for specialized design services and architectural or engineering firms. Others set up their own businesses. Although self-employment offers greater flexibility, it also comes with its own set of challenges. Hours are often unpredictable, and designers must invest time in networking and bringing in clients.
To advance your career, it is crucial to maintain a high standard of education. Interior designers must be committed to continuous learning, enjoy working with a wide variety of aesthetics and be passionate about a wide range of design styles. Moreover, they must be skilled at finding inspiration and showcasing their talent to prospective clients. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment for interior designers will continue to grow at an average rate over the next decade. Moreover, the growing trend of environmentally-friendly design solutions will increase demand for these professionals.