Are you dreaming of transforming spaces and making a living doing it? Then the burning question is: How much does an interior designer make in California, and is it enough to fuel your dreams? The answer, while multifaceted, leans towards a resounding yes, especially if you're passionate and driven to succeed in the Golden State's thriving design scene.

California, with its diverse architectural styles and affluent clientele, presents a unique landscape for interior designers. From the sun-drenched villas of Southern California to the modern lofts of San Francisco, the opportunities are as varied as the state itself. But what does this translate to in terms of salary, and how can aspiring and established designers maximize their earning potential?

Category	Details
Profession	Interior Designer
Location Focus	California, USA
Salary Range (Experienced)	Typically $63,571 to $114,944 per year
Salary Range (Entry Level)	Roughly $35,486 to $69,301 per year
Hourly Rate (General Avg.)	Around $28 - $41 per hour, but can reach $68.32
Salary Influencers	Location, Education, Certifications, Experience, Skills
Job Description	Plan, design, and furnish interior spaces of buildings to be functional, safe, and beautiful.
Responsibilities	Conceptualizing designs, selecting materials, creating layouts, and managing project budgets.
Related Information	Learn about salaries, benefits, salary satisfaction and where you could earn the most.
States with high pay	Illinois, Georgia, Virginia and California.
Website	American Society of Interior Designers (ASID)

Let's delve into the numbers. The average salary for an interior designer in California is a moving target, with various sources reporting different figures. Some claim an average of around $80,336 per year, while others cite figures like $69,709 (as of May 1, 2025), $71,895 (as of May 7, 2025), $84,793, $93,455, $104,240, $125,742, and even $141,274. The discrepancies highlight the dynamic nature of salaries and the importance of considering various factors.

These factors include the city where you're employed (Los Angeles, Sacramento, and San Diego will have different market rates), your level of experience, education, certifications, and specialized skills. For example, an interior designer in Los Angeles, CA, might earn an average of $85,617 per year (as of September 16, 2024), while the average gross salary in Los Angeles is around $85,507, translating to an hourly rate of $41.

Entry-level positions naturally command lower salaries. The average annual salary for an entry-level interior designer in California hovers around $58,602, or $28 per hour, but this can range from $35,486 to $69,301, with hourly rates between $17 and $33. As of May 5, 2025, one source reports an average annual pay of $71,895 for entry-level designers, which equates to roughly $34.56 per hour or about $5,991 per month. It's crucial to remember that these are just averages, and your actual earnings may vary.

More experienced designers, of course, can command significantly higher salaries. The average interior designer salary in California can reach $84,793 per year, or $40.77 per hour. Entry-level positions might start around $63,571 per year, but seasoned professionals can earn upwards of $114,944 per year.

Nationally, the figures also vary. Interior designers in America make an average salary of $72,189 per year, or $34.71 per hour. The top 10 percent earn over $103,268 per year, while the bottom 10 percent earn under $49,787 per year. The average interior designer salary in the United States is $52,482, with salaries typically ranging between $35,000 and $78,000 yearly, and an average hourly rate of $25.23.

Several websites, including Glassdoor, provide salary estimates based on anonymously submitted data from interior designer employees in California. One source estimates the average salary for an interior designer in California to be $125,742 per year, with a total estimated pay of $142,024. Another source suggests that the top 50% of interior design professionals earn an average of $76,300 per year, while the top 25% earn around $63,370 per year.

Keep in mind that these are just estimates. Your actual take-home pay will depend on factors like taxes and benefits. You can find online salary calculators to estimate your after-tax income based on your specific salary and location.

The average hourly pay for an interior designer in California is $31.77, but ZipRecruiter reports salaries as high as $68.32 per hour. In Los Angeles, CA, the average salary for an interior designer is $85,713 per year. In San Diego, CA, the average salary is $74,530 per year (as of April 30, 2025, based on 34 reported salaries).

So, what impacts an interior designer's salary? Location is a significant factor, as evidenced by the differences in average salaries between Los Angeles, Sacramento, and San Diego. Education and experience also play a crucial role. Designers with advanced degrees and years of experience can command higher salaries than those just starting out.

Specialized skills and certifications can also boost your earning potential. For example, designers with expertise in sustainable design, kitchen and bath design, or commercial design may be able to charge more for their services. Certifications from organizations like the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) can also enhance your credibility and marketability.

The type of firm or company you work for can also impact your salary. Designers who work for large, established firms may earn more than those who work for smaller firms or are self-employed. However, self-employment offers the potential for greater earning potential, as you have more control over your rates and projects.

It's also important to consider the cost of living in California. While salaries may be higher in some areas, the cost of housing, transportation, and other expenses can also be significantly higher. Be sure to factor in the cost of living when evaluating job offers and negotiating your salary.

So, how can you maximize your earning potential as an interior designer in California? First, invest in your education and skills. Obtain a bachelor's degree in interior design or a related field. Seek out opportunities to gain experience through internships and entry-level positions. Develop a strong portfolio that showcases your best work.

Second, specialize in a niche area of interior design. This will allow you to become an expert in a particular field and command higher rates. Consider specializing in areas like sustainable design, universal design, healthcare design, or hospitality design.

Third, obtain certifications from reputable organizations like ASID. This will demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the profession. It will also enhance your credibility with clients and employers.

Fourth, network with other designers and industry professionals. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with designers online. This will help you stay up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies, and it will also provide opportunities for collaboration and mentorship.

Fifth, market yourself effectively. Create a professional website and social media presence. Showcase your work and expertise online. Attend networking events and conferences. Speak at industry events. Write articles for industry publications. The more visible you are, the more opportunities you will have to attract new clients and employers.

Sixth, negotiate your salary effectively. Research the average salaries for interior designers in your area and with your experience level. Be prepared to discuss your skills, experience, and accomplishments. Don't be afraid to ask for what you're worth.

Seventh, consider starting your own business. This will give you more control over your rates, projects, and earnings. However, it also requires a significant investment of time and effort. Be prepared to handle all aspects of running a business, including marketing, sales, finance, and operations.

Eighth, stay up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies. The field of interior design is constantly evolving. Be sure to stay abreast of the latest trends in design, materials, and technology. This will allow you to offer your clients the most innovative and cutting-edge solutions.

Ninth, provide excellent customer service. Happy clients are more likely to refer you to others. They are also more likely to hire you for future projects. Be responsive to your clients' needs and concerns. Go above and beyond to exceed their expectations.

Finally, be passionate about your work. Interior design is a creative and rewarding profession. If you are passionate about design, you will be more likely to succeed and earn a good living.

The salary range for interior designers in California is broad, starting from around $38,490 and going up to $101,100 per year. Salaries vary by state and can range from $38,490 to $101,100. From $48,630 in 2016 to $67,880 in 2021, the average salary is growing

Discover the earning potential of interior designers in California with our comprehensive guide. From average salaries ranging from $50,000 to over $100,000 to key factors influencing income, this article unravels the vibrant job market amidst the state's innovative design culture. Learn about education requirements, career advancement opportunities, and essential skills to thrive in cities

The estimated total pay for a interior designer is $89,976 per year in the Los Angeles CA area, with an average salary of $72,965 per year. These numbers represent the median, which is the midpoint of the ranges from our proprietary total pay estimate model and based on salaries collected from our users. Career ladder pay for interior designers roles.

The average salary for an interior designer in California is $80,504 per year, with an average annual pay of $139,343.

Ultimately, how much does an interior designer make in California? The answer depends on a multitude of factors, but with dedication, skill, and a strategic approach, a fulfilling and financially rewarding career awaits those who dare to shape the spaces we inhabit.