Architect Salary in Texas: Average Income and Factors Affecting Pay

Architects are professionals who design and plan buildings and other structures. They work with clients to determine their needs and preferences, and then create detailed drawings and specifications for construction. Architects in Texas earn varying salaries depending on their experience, education, and location.

According to data from Indeed and Glassdoor, the average salary for an architect in Texas is around $128,000 per year. However, this figure can vary significantly based on a number of factors. For example, architects with more experience or advanced degrees may earn higher salaries. Additionally, architects working in larger cities like Houston or Dallas may earn more than those working in smaller towns or rural areas.

Overall, the salary for architects in Texas is competitive with other states in the US. Architects in Texas earn salaries that are comparable to those in other states with similar costs of living. However, it is important to note that salaries for architects can vary widely depending on a number of factors, and that architects in Texas may earn more or less than the average salary depending on their individual circumstances.

Average Architect Salaries in Texas

Architects in Texas earn an average salary of $100,312 per year as of March 26, 2024, according to Salary.com [1]. However, the salary range typically falls between $88,985 and $112,273. The salary variance is based on factors such as education, certifications, additional skills, and the number of years spent in the profession.

Comparison by City

Architect salaries in Texas vary widely depending on the city. According to Indeed [2], the average salary for an architect in Austin is $128,125 per year, while the low salary is $76,669 and the high salary is $214,116. In Houston, the average salary for an architect is $96,462 per year, with a low salary of $60,000 and a high salary of $146,000.

Salary Trends Over Time

Glassdoor [3] estimates that the total pay for an architect in the Texas area is $123,013 per year, with an average salary of $96,462 per year. These numbers represent the median, which is the midpoint of the ranges from their proprietary Total Pay Estimate model, based on salaries collected from their users. The estimated additional pay is $26,550 per year.

Overall, the average architect salary in Texas is competitive compared to other states. While the salary variance is based on factors such as education, certifications, additional skills, and the number of years spent in the profession, the location of the position also plays a significant role in determining the salary.

Factors Influencing Architect Salaries

Architects in Texas earn a range of salaries, which can vary depending on several factors. Here are some of the key factors that can influence architect salaries in Texas.

Experience and Position

Experience is a key factor that can influence an architect's salary. Generally, the more experience an architect has, the more they can earn. Additionally, an architect's position within a company can also impact their salary. Architects in leadership positions, such as project managers or chief architects, typically earn higher salaries than those in entry-level positions.

Education and Specializations

Education and specializations can also have an impact on an architect's salary. Architects with a bachelor's degree in architecture typically earn less than those with a master's degree in architecture. Additionally, architects with specializations in areas such as sustainable design or healthcare design may have higher earning potential than those without specializations.

Industry Demand and Economic Indicators

The demand for architects in Texas can also impact their salaries. In times of high demand, architects may be able to command higher salaries due to their specialized skills and expertise. Conversely, in times of low demand, architects may have to accept lower salaries or face competition for available positions. Economic indicators, such as the state of the construction industry or the overall health of the economy, can also impact architect salaries in Texas.

In conclusion, there are several factors that can influence architect salaries in Texas, including experience, education, specialization, demand, and economic indicators. Architects who possess leadership skills, a master's degree, a state architect's license, and specializations in high-demand areas may have higher earning potential. However, it is important to note that architect salaries can vary widely depending on the specific position, company, and location.

Salary Variations Across Architect Roles

Architects in Texas have varying salaries depending on their roles and experience. In this section, we will explore some of the salary variations across different types of architects.

Landscape Architect vs. Naval Architect

Landscape architects and naval architects have different job descriptions, and their salaries also differ. According to Salary.com, the average salary for a landscape architect in Texas is $68,700, while a naval architect earns an average salary of $102,900. This is because naval architects typically have more specialized knowledge and experience, and their work involves designing and building ships and marine structures.

Project Architect vs. Senior Architect

Project architects and senior architects are two common roles for architects in Texas. Project architects typically work on specific projects and are responsible for managing the design and construction process. Senior architects, on the other hand, have more experience and may oversee multiple projects or teams.

According to Indeed, the average salary for a project architect in Texas is $75,000, while a senior architect earns an average salary of $128,000. This is because senior architects typically have more experience and responsibilities, and their work involves overseeing the entire design process.

Lower-Level Architects

There are also lower-level architects in Texas, such as junior architects or architectural interns. These architects typically have less experience and responsibilities compared to senior architects or project architects.

According to Glassdoor, the estimated total pay for an architectural intern is $53,000 per year in the Texas area, with an average salary of $43,000 per year. This is because architectural interns are typically in the early stages of their career and have less experience.

In conclusion, architects in Texas have varying salaries depending on their roles and experience. Landscape architects and naval architects, project architects and senior architects, and lower-level architects all have different salary ranges. It is important to consider these variations when pursuing a career in architecture.

Benefits and Perks for Architects in Texas

Architects in Texas enjoy a variety of benefits and perks that make their profession a rewarding one. In addition to a competitive salary, many architects receive a range of benefits that make their jobs more fulfilling.

Health Insurance

One of the most important benefits that architects in Texas receive is health insurance. Many firms offer comprehensive health insurance plans that cover medical, dental, and vision care. This helps to ensure that architects and their families have access to the care they need when they need it.

Retirement Plans

Another important benefit that architects in Texas receive is access to retirement plans. Many firms offer 401(k) plans or other retirement plans that allow architects to save for their future. This is an important benefit, as it helps to ensure that architects can retire comfortably and enjoy their golden years.

Paid Time Off

Paid time off is another important benefit that architects in Texas enjoy. Many firms offer paid vacation days, sick days, and personal days. This allows architects to take time off when they need it, whether it's to recover from an illness or to spend time with their families.

Professional Development

Professional development is an important aspect of any career, and architects in Texas are no exception. Many firms offer opportunities for architects to attend conferences, workshops, and other training events. This helps architects to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in their field, and to improve their skills and knowledge.

Flexible Work Arrangements

Finally, many firms in Texas offer flexible work arrangements to their architects. This can include telecommuting options, flexible hours, and other arrangements that allow architects to balance their work and personal lives. This is an important benefit, as it allows architects to maintain a healthy work-life balance and to enjoy their careers without sacrificing their personal lives.

In conclusion, architects in Texas enjoy a range of benefits and perks that make their profession a rewarding one. From health insurance and retirement plans to paid time off and professional development opportunities, architects in Texas have access to the resources they need to succeed in their careers.

Comparing Texas Architect Salaries to Other States

South and Southeastern States Comparison

When it comes to architect salaries, Texas is one of the top-paying states in the South and Southeastern region of the United States. According to Salary Explorer, the average salary for an architect in Texas is around $131,000 per year. This is higher than the average salary for an architect in neighboring states such as Louisiana, where architects earn an average of $91,000 per year, and Arkansas, where architects earn an average of $98,000 per year.

However, there are a few states in the region that pay architects even more than Texas. For example, in Georgia, architects earn an average of $136,000 per year, and in Virginia, architects earn an average of $142,000 per year. While these states may pay slightly more than Texas, the cost of living in these states is also higher, so architects may not necessarily have a higher standard of living.

Comparison with New York and California

When compared to states like New York and California, Texas architect salaries may seem lower. According to Forbes, the average salary for an architect in New York is around $118,000 per year, while in California, architects earn an average of $108,000 per year. However, the cost of living in these states is much higher than in Texas, so architects may not necessarily have a higher standard of living.

It is important to note that architect salaries can vary greatly depending on factors such as experience, education, and location. While Texas may not be the highest-paying state for architects, it still offers a competitive salary and a lower cost of living compared to other states.