Architect salary 2025: National median pay is $97,570
The median architect (excluding naval) earns $97,570 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' most recent data. The typical range stretches from $61,110 at the 10th percentile to $158,900 at the 90th. That works out to a mean hourly wage of about $47, and a mean annual salary of $103,550. Across the country, 126,380 architects hold these positions.
How much Architects, Except Naval earn
The median annual wage for architects (excluding naval) is $97,570. The lowest-paid 10% earn $61,110 or less, while the highest-paid 10% make $158,900 or more. The mean wage sits at $103,550, or roughly $49.78 per hour.
Pay varies widely by experience level, firm size, and geography. Entry-level architects typically start near the bottom of the range, while principals and partners at large firms pull in six figures.
- 10th percentile: $61,110
- 25th percentile: not available from BLS
- Median: $97,570
- 75th percentile: not available from BLS
- 90th percentile: $158,900
Pay by state
The BLS does not currently publish state-level breakdowns for this occupation. However, architects in high-cost metro areas like New York, San Francisco, and Boston typically earn above the national median, while those in lower-cost states may see salaries near the bottom of the range.
How to become Architects, Except Naval
Becoming a licensed architect typically requires a professional degree in architecture from a program accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). Most architects hold a five-year Bachelor of Architecture or a four-year bachelor's plus a two-year Master of Architecture.
After earning a degree, aspiring architects must complete a period of paid internship — usually three years through the Architectural Experience Program (AXP). Then they pass the Architect Registration Examination (ARE) to get licensed in their state. Licensure is mandatory in all U.S. states and the District of Columbia.
- Earn a NAAB-accredited degree (B.Arch or M.Arch).
- Complete the AXP internship (typically 3 years).
- Pass the ARE licensing exam.
- Apply for state license; many states require continuing education.
Job outlook
The BLS does not provide a projected growth rate for this specific occupation for 2024–2034. However, employment of architects overall is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations (around 5% from 2023–2033, per BLS), driven by demand for sustainable and efficient building design.
Competition for positions at top firms will remain strong. Architects with expertise in green building, BIM (Building Information Modeling), and adaptive reuse may have better prospects.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average salary for an architect?
The mean annual salary for architects (except naval) is $103,550, according to the BLS. The median is $97,570.
How much do architects make per hour?
The mean hourly wage is about $47. At the median, hourly pay works out to roughly $46.91 based on a 40-hour week.
Do architects need a license?
Yes. All U.S. states require architects to be licensed. The path includes an accredited degree, paid internship (AXP), and passing the ARE exam.
What is the job outlook for architects?
The BLS projects overall employment of architects to grow about 5% through 2033, which is about average. However, specific growth for the "Architects, Except Naval" category is not available for 2024–2034.
How many architects are employed in the U.S.?
The BLS reports 126,380 architects (except naval) are currently employed nationwide.
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 Naval data.