Do Interior Designers Make a Lot of Money?
Interior design isn’t just about picking out curtains or choosing nice furniture. It’s a real profession. We solve space problems, manage budgets, plan layouts, work with contractors, and design homes or offices that people love to live and work in.
“Do interior designers actually make a lot of money?”
Short answer? Yes — especially those with experience, a strong client base, and a niche. The more skilled you are, the more you can earn. Let’s break it down.
How Much Do Interior Designers Typically Earn?
Let’s talk numbers.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2024):
- The average salary for an interior designer is $63,490 per year
- The top 10% make over $106,000 per year
- The bottom 10% make less than $38,000
That’s a wide range — and earnings depend on where you work, who your clients are, and how much experience you’ve got.
In Bangladesh, income varies a lot. A designer working on luxury apartments or commercial projects in Dhaka earns more than someone handling small home makeovers in rural areas. If you work independently or run your own studio, your profit can be much more than if you work for a firm.
What Affects How Much Interior Designers Earn?
Let me walk you through the main factors.
Experience and Expertise
In the beginning, you earn less — and that’s normal. As you gain experience and build a portfolio, your fees go up.
I’ve seen designers with over 5 years’ experience double or even triple their early-career income. Clients pay for proven results and well-managed projects.
Location and Market Demand
In places like New York, Dubai, London, or even Gulshan or Banani in Dhaka, design fees are higher. That’s because the cost of living is high, and there’s more demand for premium design work.
When people invest in expensive homes or offices, they’re more willing to pay for high-quality interior design.
Area of Specialization
Some niches pay more than others.
Examples include:
- Luxury residences
- Hotels and resorts
- Corporate offices
- Retail outlets
- Green / eco-friendly designs
A designer who only takes on luxury villa projects can charge more than someone doing rental apartment makeovers.
Employment Type
Here’s how it usually works:
- Interior designers who work in firms earn a monthly salary
- Independent designers (like me) earn through project fees
- Freelancers work hourly or by flat rate, and can handle multiple clients
Independent or studio designers can earn more, but we also manage more — marketing, hiring, project risks.
Skills, Certifications, and Tools
Your skills matter.
Designers with certifications like NCIDQ, or degrees in design fields, earn more. Plus, if you know how to use AutoCAD, SketchUp, Revit, or Adobe Suite, you’re a lot more competitive.
I’ve personally seen how mastering these tools helped me land bigger projects. The more professional you are, the more clients trust you — and the more they’ll pay.
Portfolio, Reputation, and Referrals
This one is big.
People trust what they can see. A strong portfolio, testimonials, and even one good reference can bring in serious projects.
When a client loves your work, they tell others. Many of my long-term clients came from referrals — and with bigger projects come bigger paychecks.
How Interior Designers Actually Earn
Let me explain how money flows in our world:
- Salaries (for people working at firms)
- Hourly rates (for consults or small projects)
- Flat fees (for fixed-scope work)
- Commission-based (on materials or furniture sourced)
- Percentage of project cost (common in high-end projects)
Do Interior Designers Make More Than Architects?
Architects usually earn a bit more because they are licensed professionals. But it's not a rule.
I’ve seen interior designers earning more than architects, especially when they run their own business and target luxury or commercial clients.
Profit in interior design often comes from smart branding, amazing service, and trust, not just degrees or licenses.
Can Interior Designers Work from Home and Still Earn Well?
Yes, absolutely.
I’ve worked fully remote on some projects — especially early planning, mood boards, 3D visualizations, and even client meetings.
With tools like Zoom, SketchUp, and Canva — plus good communication — designers today can work with clients outside their city or even across countries.
Remote designers with a strong online presence earn just as well, sometimes even better.
How Successful Designers Build Long-Term Wealth
Earning a good salary is one thing — building long-term success is something else.
Here’s how top designers grow:
- Build a personal brand and earn trust
- Start their own studio or firm
- Offer turnkey packages (design + build)
- Expand into consulting or even teaching
- Invest in marketing, photography, and building an online audience
At Archiconnect, we follow this same vision. Every team member focuses on quality, timely delivery, and creating real value — and that’s what keeps projects coming.
Why Hiring a Professional Interior Designer Is Worth the Money
Hiring an experienced designer is not an expense — it’s an investment. Here’s what clients often gain:
- Smart space planning
- Better functionality
- Stylish but long-lasting materials
- Increased property value
- Less project stress and better budgeting
Many times, I’ve helped clients actually save money by avoiding costly mistakes.
Bottom line: You’re not just paying for a “look” — you’re paying for peace of mind, smarter decisions, and a space you’ll love for years.
Conclusion: Interior Design Can Be Creative and Lucrative
Interior designers can absolutely make a lot of money. But — it depends on how experienced you are, your skills, your market, and how well you present your work.
At Archiconnect, we know that great design blends creativity, business sense, and strategy. We design not only for style — we design for value.
FAQ
How much do interior designers make per month?
It depends on location and setup. In the U.S., it averages around $5,200/month. In Bangladesh, monthly income can range from ৳30,000 to over ৳150,000, depending on experience and project type.
Do interior designers make more than architects?
Sometimes. Architects need licenses, but experienced interior designers with successful studios often earn just as much or more.
Can interior designers make six figures?
Yes. Especially in high-end markets or with their own design firm.
What type of interior designer earns the most?
Designers in luxury homes, hotels, or corporate spaces usually make the most.
Do interior designers need a degree to earn well?
Not always, but a degree or certification helps build trust and win bigger projects.
Can you make a lot of money being an interior designer?
Yes — with the right skills, client service, and smart business decisions.
Are interior designers millionaires?
Some are! Especially those who run successful firms or expand into real estate, product design, or consulting.
Is an interior designer worth the money?
Definitely. A smart design saves you future repairs, improves quality of life, and boosts property value.
