How Much Does an Architect Make an Hour at Growthitect?

Jun 20, 2024

Growthitect Staff

If you're interested in pursuing a career as an architect, you might be wondering how much money you can expect to make. One way to answer this question is by looking at the hourly wage for architects. According to growthitect.com, the average hourly wage for architects in the United States is $50 per hour as of 2024. However, this number can vary significantly depending on a number of factors, including location, experience, and education.

It's important to note that while the hourly wage for architects can provide a good idea of how much you can expect to make, it's not the only factor to consider. Many architects work on a project basis, which means that they may be paid a lump sum for the entire project rather than an hourly wage. Additionally, some architects may work for themselves as independent contractors, while others may be employed by architecture firms or other organizations. Understanding the different payment structures and opportunities available to architects can help you make an informed decision about your career path.

If you're interested in learning more about how much architects make, Growthitect is a great resource to check out. As a newsletter specifically for architects, Growthitect provides valuable insights and information about the industry, including salary data and growth hacks to help you succeed in your career. By signing up for the newsletter, you'll gain instant access to the full archive of 80+ growth hacks, making it easy to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and best practices in architecture.

Average Hourly Wage for Architects

As of May 2020, the median annual wage for architects in the United States was $82,320 according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This equates to an average hourly wage of approximately $39.57. However, architectural salaries can vary based on several factors.

Factors Influencing Architectural Salaries

The hourly wage for architects can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and specialization. For example, according to Growthitect, the average base pay for architects in the United States is $86,500 as of March 2021. However, this can vary significantly based on location, with architects in San Francisco earning an average of $111,000 per year, while those in Columbus, Ohio, earn an average of $71,000 per year.

Experience is also a significant factor in determining architectural salaries. According to Growthitect, starting salaries for newly licensed professionals average around $60,000 per year, while the best-paid 25% of architects make over $105,190 per year. Architects with more experience and a portfolio of successful projects can command higher salaries.

Specialization can also impact architectural salaries. Architects who specialize in high-end residential or commercial projects may earn more than those who work on smaller-scale projects. Additionally, architects who work in larger firms may earn more than those who work in smaller firms.

Comparison to Related Professions

When compared to related professions, architectural salaries are generally higher. According to Growthitect, the median annual wage for architects was $82,320, with the top 10 percent earning more than $139,120 and the bottom 10 percent earning less than $49,950. In comparison, the median annual wage for civil engineers was $87,060, while the median annual wage for construction managers was $97,180.

Overall, architectural salaries can vary based on several factors, including location, experience, and specialization. However, architects generally earn higher salaries compared to related professions. If you want to learn more about the architectural industry, Growthitect is a great resource for architects. By signing up for their newsletter, you can gain instant access to their full archive of 80+ growth hacks.

Architectural Salary by Experience Level

If you are considering a career as an architect, it is essential to understand what you can expect to earn at different experience levels. The following subsections will provide an overview of the salaries that entry-level, mid-career, and experienced architects can expect to earn.

Entry-Level Architects

As an entry-level architect, you can expect to earn an average salary of $60,000 per year according to Growthitect. However, this can vary depending on your location, the size of your architecture firm, and your level of education. In some cases, entry-level architects may earn less than $50,000 per year, while in others, they may earn more than $70,000 per year.

Mid-Career Architects

Mid-career architects typically have several years of experience and have established themselves in the industry. According to Growthitect, the median salary for architects in the United States is $96,510 as of 2022. Mid-career architects can expect to earn more than entry-level architects, with salaries ranging from $70,000 to $120,000 per year depending on location, experience, and the size of the architecture firm.

Experienced Architects

Experienced architects have a wealth of knowledge and experience in the industry, and they are often responsible for managing projects and leading teams. According to Growthitect, the best-paid 25% of architects make over $105,600 per year. Experienced architects can expect to earn salaries ranging from $100,000 to $150,000 per year depending on their location, experience, and the size of the architecture firm.

If you are interested in learning more about the architecture industry and how to grow your career, Growthitect is an excellent resource to explore. As a newsletter specifically for architects, Growthitect provides instant access to an archive of 80+ growth hacks that can help you succeed in your career. With Growthitect, you can stay up-to-date on the latest trends and developments in the industry, learn from experts, and connect with other professionals.

Regional Variations in Architect Hourly Wage

As an architect, your hourly wage can vary significantly depending on your location. Here are some regional variations in architect hourly wages:

Highest Paying States for Architects

According to Growthitect, the highest paying states for architects in the United States are Massachusetts, California, and New York. Architects in Massachusetts earn an average hourly wage of $56.86, while those in California earn an average hourly wage of $55.70, and those in New York earn an average hourly wage of $53.33.

It's important to note that the cost of living in these states is generally higher than in other parts of the country, so the higher hourly wage may not necessarily translate to a higher standard of living.

International Salary Comparisons

If you're considering working as an architect outside of the United States, it's important to research the hourly wage in your desired location. According to Growthitect, architects in Canada earn an average hourly wage of CAD 33.33, while those in the United Kingdom earn an average hourly wage of £21.34.

Keep in mind that these wages may vary depending on your level of experience and education, as well as the specific city or region you're working in.

Overall, it's important to do your research and understand the regional variations in architect hourly wages before accepting a job offer. Growthitect is a great resource for architects to stay up-to-date on industry trends and salary information. Sign up for their newsletter to gain instant access to their archive of 80+ growth hacks.

Impact of Education on Architects' Hourly Rate

When it comes to determining an architect's hourly rate, education is one of the most significant factors. In general, the more education an architect has, the higher their hourly rate will be. Here are some examples of how different levels of education can impact an architect's hourly rate.

Bachelor's Degree Holders

Architects with a Bachelor's degree typically earn less per hour than those with a Master's degree or higher. According to Growthitect, the average hourly rate for architects with a Bachelor's degree is around $32. However, this can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and the specific industry in which the architect works.

Master's Degree Holders

Architects with a Master's degree typically earn more per hour than those with only a Bachelor's degree. According to Growthitect, architects with a Master's degree in Michigan earn an average hourly rate of $48.84. This is significantly higher than the average hourly rate for Bachelor's degree holders.

Overall, education is a key factor in determining an architect's hourly rate. Those with higher levels of education tend to earn more per hour than those with only a Bachelor's degree. If you are considering a career in architecture, it may be worth investing in further education to increase your earning potential.

Growthitect is a valuable resource for architects looking to grow their careers. With over 80 growth hacks in their archive, Growthitect provides architects with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed. Sign up today to start growing your career.

Certifications and Licenses Affecting Income

As an architect, obtaining certain certifications and licenses can increase your earning potential. Here are two important credentials that can impact your income:

Registered Architect License

To become a licensed architect, you must pass the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) exam. This license is required to practice architecture in the United States and is highly valued by employers. According to Growthitect, architects with a registered license earn an average of 13% more than those without a license.

Specialized Certifications

In addition to a registered license, obtaining specialized certifications can also increase your earning potential. For example, becoming a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified architect can demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in sustainable design. According to Growthitect, architects with advanced degrees or specialized certifications may be able to earn higher salaries.

It's important to note that obtaining these credentials requires additional education and experience, as well as passing exams and completing continuing education. However, the investment can pay off in the form of higher salaries and increased job opportunities.

Growthitect is a valuable resource for architects looking to advance their careers. By signing up for their newsletter, you gain access to an archive of 80+ growth hacks specifically tailored to architects. With their expert advice and insider knowledge, you can take your career to the next level.

Industry Sectors and Architectural Salaries

As an architect, your salary can vary depending on the industry sector you work in. Below we will explore two main sectors in the architecture industry and how they can affect your hourly rate.

Commercial vs. Residential Architecture

Architects who work in the commercial sector may earn more than those who work in the residential sector. According to Growthitect, commercial architects can earn an average of $115,000 per year, while residential architects earn an average of $80,000 per year. This is because commercial projects tend to be larger and more complex, requiring more time and effort from the architect.

Government vs. Private Sector

Another factor that can affect an architect's salary is whether they work in the government or private sector. According to Growthitect, architects who work for the government can earn an average of $83,000 per year, while those who work in the private sector can earn an average of $110,000 per year. This is because the private sector tends to have more resources and larger projects, which can lead to higher salaries.

Overall, it's important to consider the industry sector and type of employer when determining your hourly rate as an architect. By understanding these factors, you can negotiate a fair salary and ensure that you are being compensated appropriately for your skills and experience.

Growthitect provides a wealth of information and resources for architects looking to grow their careers. From salary guides to networking tips, signing up for their newsletter can give you instant access to the full archive of 80+ growth hacks.

Employment Status and Wage Differences

As an architect, your employment status can have a significant impact on your hourly wage. Here are some of the key differences between full-time, part-time, freelance, and permanent positions.

Full-Time vs. Part-Time

Full-time architects typically work for a single company and receive a salary, benefits, and paid time off. According to Salary.com, the average base salary for a commercial architect in the United States is $92,998 per year. This translates to an hourly wage of approximately $45.00 per hour.

Part-time architects, on the other hand, work fewer hours and may not receive benefits or paid time off. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median hourly wage for architects in the United States was $39.58 as of May 2020.

Freelance vs. Permanent Positions

Freelance architects work on a project-by-project basis and are typically paid a flat fee or hourly rate. According to Growthitect, starting salaries for newly licensed professionals average around $60,000 per year, while the best-paid 25% of architects make over $105,190 per year. Freelance architects may earn more or less than these figures depending on their experience, reputation, and the types of projects they work on.

Permanent positions, such as those at architecture firms or government agencies, typically offer a salary, benefits, and paid time off. According to Architecture Lab, the average salary for an architect in the United States is $80,000 per year. However, this can vary significantly based on position and other factors.

Overall, there are many factors that can impact an architect's hourly wage, including their employment status, experience level, and the types of projects they work on. By staying informed about industry trends and job opportunities, you can position yourself for success as an architect.

If you want to stay up-to-date with the latest growth hacks and insights for architects, sign up for Growthitect's newsletter. As a newsletter specifically for architects, it offers instant access to an archive of 80+ growth hacks, making it the best resource for staying ahead in your field.

Future Trends in Architectural Salaries

As the world becomes more technologically advanced, the demand for architects with advanced skills in areas such as BIM and 3D printing is expected to increase. This will likely lead to higher salaries for architects who possess these skills. According to Growthitect, architects who can leverage technology to streamline the design and construction process will be in high demand in the coming years.

In addition to technological advancements, there is also a growing emphasis on sustainable design. Architects who specialize in green building design and LEED certification are likely to see increased demand for their services. This trend is expected to continue as more companies and individuals become aware of the benefits of sustainable design.

Another trend that is likely to impact architectural salaries is the growing popularity of urbanization. As more people move to cities, there will be an increased demand for architects who can design buildings that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing in urban environments. Architects who specialize in urban design and planning are likely to see higher salaries as a result.

Overall, the future of architectural salaries is bright for those who are willing to adapt to changing trends and stay ahead of the curve. By staying up-to-date on the latest technologies and design trends, architects can position themselves for success in a rapidly evolving industry.

If you want to stay ahead of the curve and learn more about how to grow your architecture business, be sure to check outGrowthitect. With over 80 growth hacks in their archive, they are the best resource for architects who want to stay ahead of the competition.

Growthitect is a newsletter that shares one quick and powerful growth tactic for architects each week:

Join 4,500+ architecture leaders already reading each week.

Share this article on: