Architect Salary.
Across 83 U.S. cities.
$88,000
national median salary
$68,000 to $118,000. Last updated April 2026.
Highest Paying
$123,000
San Jose, CA
Best Purchasing Power
$92,000
Boston, MA
Lowest Paying
$67,000
Jackson, MS
Salary data sourced from SEC filings, H-1B Labor Condition Applications (DOL), Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, and aggregated job postings across 50+ platforms. Ranges reflect 25th to 75th percentile for full-time positions. Cost-of-living adjustments use Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (2025 index). Last updated April 2026.
The average Architect salary in the United States is $88,000 in 2026, with the full range spanning $68,000 at the 25th percentile to $118,000 at the 75th. San Jose pays the most at $123,000, while Boston offers the best purchasing power after cost-of-living adjustments. Licensure status, project type specialization, and geographic market create the widest salary gaps.
Architect salary by city
Skills that increase Architect pay
The skills below command measurable salary premiums for Architects based on job posting data. Learning the top skill here could add $12,320 to your annual compensation.
≈ +$12,320 per year
≈ +$11,440 per year
≈ +$10,560 per year
≈ +$9,680 per year
≈ +$9,680 per year
≈ +$8,800 per year
≈ +$8,800 per year
≈ +$7,920 per year
What you should know
Licensure status, project type specialization, and geographic market create the widest salary gaps. Licensed architects working on large commercial, healthcare, or institutional projects in major metro areas earn 20 to 35% more than unlicensed designers working on residential projects.
Architectural Designers before licensure earn $68,000 to $80,000. Licensed Architects with five to eight years of experience reach $85,000 to $105,000. Project Architects and Senior Architects command $100,000 to $130,000, while Principals and Partners can earn $140,000 to $250,000.
Principals and partners at architecture firms often receive profit-sharing distributions of $20,000 to $100,000 or more. Project completion bonuses of 5 to 10% are common. Professional development and licensure exam reimbursement are standard benefits.