Architects, Except Landscape and Naval Salary 2025: $99,280 Median, How to Start, and Job Growth
The median salary for architects (except landscape and naval) is $99,280 per year, according to the latest BLS data. The mean annual wage hits $106,260, or about $48 an hour. Most architects earn between $62,300 (10th percentile) and $161,420 (90th percentile). That range reflects experience, location, and specialization.
How much Architects, Except Landscape and Naval earn
Architects design buildings and structures, from homes to skyscrapers. The national median salary of $99,280 means half earn more, half less. The top 10% pull in over $161,420. Entry-level positions start around $62,300. Pay varies significantly by experience: junior architects at firms often earn below the median, while principals or those with 10+ years land near the top.
The mean hourly wage is $51.08. Full-time architects typically work 40 hours, but overtime is common during project deadlines. Self-employed architects may have more variable income.
Pay by state
Location matters. Wyoming offers the highest average salary for architects at $120,580, followed by Massachusetts ($117,330), Maryland ($114,550), Alaska ($108,730), and California ($108,540). These states have strong construction sectors or high cost-of-living adjustments. On the lower end, Maine averages $78,600, Arkansas $78,190, and New Mexico $77,720. Note that cost of living can offset salary differences; a high salary in California may not stretch as far as a moderate one in a lower-cost state.
How to become Architects, Except Landscape and Naval
Becoming a licensed architect requires a mix of education, experience, and exams. Here’s the typical path.
- Education: Earn a 5-year Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) or a 2-3 year Master of Architecture (M.Arch) from a program accredited by NAAB. Some start with a pre-architecture bachelor’s.
- Experience: Complete a paid internship under a licensed architect. Most states require 3,740 hours (about 3 years) through the Architectural Experience Program (AXP).
- Licensing: Pass the Architect Registration Examination (ARE) 5.0, a 6-division test. Additionally, pass a state-specific exam on legal/jurisprudence in some states.
- Certification: Optional but helpful: NCARB certification facilitates license reciprocity across states.
Job outlook
Employment of architects (excluding landscape and naval) is projected to grow 3.9% from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations. That translates to roughly 7,800 job openings each year over the decade. Most openings come from retirements or workers leaving the field. Currently, 106,770 architects work in the U.S. Growth is tied to construction demand, which can be cyclical. Sustainable design and renovation projects may boost opportunities.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between an architect and a landscape architect?
Architects design buildings and structures, while landscape architects design outdoor spaces like parks, gardens, and plazas. This occupation excludes landscape architects and naval architects (who design ships).
How long does it take to become a licensed architect?
Typically 8-11 years: 5-7 years of education (B.Arch or M.Arch) plus about 3 years of internship, plus licensing exams. Some fast-track options exist with earlier career starts.
What skills are most important for an architect?
Technical design ability, knowledge of building codes and materials, project management, communication, and proficiency in software like AutoCAD, Revit, and BIM tools. Creativity and attention to detail are crucial.
Can architects work remotely?
Some architectural work can be done remotely, especially design and drafting, but site visits, client meetings, and team collaboration often require in-person presence. Hybrid arrangements are common.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Architects, Except Landscape and Naval data.