The field of architecture remains a dynamic and essential profession, blending creativity, technical skills, and project management. Here are some architect quick facts including pay, education, job outlook, and work environment from the BLS site.
Table of Contents
2023 Median Pay
- Annual Median Pay: $93,310 per year
- Hourly Median Pay: $44.86 per hour
Architects earn competitive salaries, with a median annual wage significantly above the national average for many professions. The hourly wage further emphasizes the lucrative nature of the job, rewarding both entry-level and experienced architects well.
Entry-Level Education and Training
- Typical Entry-Level Education: Bachelor’s degree in Architecture
- On-the-job Training: Internship or residency (typically a paid internship)
- Work Experience in a Related Occupation: None required
Becoming an architect typically involves three key steps: completing a bachelor’s degree in architecture, gaining relevant experience through an internship, and passing the Architect Registration Examination. These qualifications ensure that architects are well-equipped for the demands of the role.
Number of Jobs and Job Outlook (2023-2033)
- Number of Jobs (2023): 127,300
- Projected Employment Change (2023-33): 9,900 new jobs
- Job Outlook: 8% growth (Faster than the average for all occupations)
- Annual Job Openings: Approximately 8,500 openings per year
Employment in architecture is projected to grow by 8% between 2023 and 2033, outpacing the average growth rate across other fields. This expansion is driven by the ongoing need for new construction, renovation, and the increasing importance of sustainable design.
What Architects Do
Architects are responsible for planning and designing a variety of structures, including houses, office buildings, and factories. Their work ensures that spaces are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, meeting the needs of clients while adhering to building regulations. For more information see What Architects Do.
Work Environment
Architects spend much of their time in office settings, collaborating with engineers, clients, and fellow architects. They also frequently visit construction sites to develop initial plans and review the progress of projects to ensure all objectives are met. For more information see their Work Environment.
State & Area Data
Architect wages and employment can vary significantly by location. It is advisable for prospective architects to explore state and area-specific data to assess regional job opportunities and salary expectations.
| State | Architect Employment | Architect Annual Median Wage |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | 1,340 | – |
| Alaska | 150 | $106,780 |
| Arizona | 1,450 | $100,350 |
| Arkansas | 670 | $81,340 |
| California | 15,370 | $100,090 |
| Colorado | 3,470 | $88,290 |
| Connecticut | 1,130 | $103,450 |
| Delaware | 90 | $105,270 |
| District of Columbia | 1,850 | $102,740 |
| Florida | 5,380 | $81,070 |
| Georgia | 3,040 | $94,520 |
| Guam | 70 | $98,490 |
| Hawaii | 560 | $94,240 |
| Idaho | 660 | $80,000 |
| Illinois | 5,470 | $83,140 |
| Indiana | 1,150 | $81,470 |
| Iowa | 700 | $84,360 |
| Kansas | 1,040 | $79,300 |
| Kentucky | 530 | $91,100 |
| Louisiana | 1,010 | $76,390 |
| Maine | 500 | $64,970 |
| Maryland | 2,200 | $86,340 |
| Massachusetts | 4,830 | $99,280 |
| Michigan | 3,060 | $80,310 |
| Minnesota | 2,660 | $92,590 |
| Mississippi | 350 | $72,540 |
| Missouri | 2,330 | $81,170 |
| Montana | 470 | $80,860 |
| Nebraska | 630 | $81,880 |
| Nevada | 330 | $101,900 |
| New Hampshire | 360 | $79,790 |
| New Jersey | 2,180 | $96,520 |
| New Mexico | 620 | $79,030 |
| New York | 10,970 | $96,220 |
| North Carolina | 3,260 | $79,760 |
| North Dakota | 200 | $78,860 |
| Ohio | 3,230 | $95,890 |
| Oklahoma | 930 | $79,890 |
| Oregon | 2,050 | $79,700 |
| Pennsylvania | 3,540 | $85,450 |
| Puerto Rico | 590 | $46,840 |
| Rhode Island | 330 | $76,900 |
| South Carolina | 1,020 | $81,890 |
| South Dakota | 160 | $100,640 |
| Tennessee | 1,990 | $80,400 |
| Texas | 8,110 | $80,880 |
| Utah | 1,200 | $72,910 |
| Vermont | 280 | $84,440 |
| Virginia | 2,340 | $98,590 |
| Washington | 4,120 | $94,560 |
| West Virginia | 160 | $81,320 |
| Wisconsin | 1,610 | $88,340 |
| Wyoming | 100 | $100,180 |
| Source: bls.gov |
Similar Occupations
Architecture shares similarities with a variety of other professions, such as civil engineers, construction managers, and landscape architects. Each role offers distinct responsibilities, pay scales, and educational requirements, providing options for those interested in related fields. For more information see Similar Occupations.
Job Outlook and Opportunities
As the demand for new and renovated spaces grows, architects will continue to play a vital role in shaping the built environment. The projected 8% job growth indicates a promising future for those entering the field. For more information see their Job Outlook.
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