Interior Designers in California
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | California | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $77,360 | $63,490 | +21.8% vs US |
| State Rank | #3 of 51 states | Top 10 state | |
| Employment | 8,360 jobs | 69,580 jobs | 12.0% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in California
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $46,540 | $22.38 |
| 25th Percentile | $60,260 | $28.97 |
| Median | $77,360 | $37.19 |
| 75th Percentile | $99,030 | $47.61 |
| 90th Percentile | $131,870 | $63.40 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Interior Designers in California in 2026?
With a median salary of $77,360 in California and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +40.6%, interior designers are still in strong and growing demand.
How can interior designers increase their salary in California?
Interior Designers in California can increase earnings by targeting higher-paying industries which tend to offer compensation well above the state median. Additionally, relocating to a higher-paying state could offer a significant income boost: California currently ranks #3 out of 51 states for this occupation. Pursuing advanced credentials, specializations, or roles with greater responsibility are proven ways to move toward the 75th or 90th percentile of earners.
Which industries pay the most for Interior Designers in California?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Other Personal Services | $111,890 |
| Personal and Laundry Services | $111,890 |
| Federal Executive Branch (OEWS Designation) | $95,640 |
How are Interior Designers paid in California compared to the national average?
The median salary for Interior Designers in California is $77,360, which is 21.8% above the national median of $63,490.