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Job outlook for building architects in the United States
Are building architect jobs in demand?
Building architect job and salary trends over time
Building architect jobs over time
Building architect job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 297 | 0.00% |
| 2020 | 307 | 0.00% |
| 2019 | 313 | 0.00% |
| 2018 | 308 | 0.00% |
| 2017 | 305 | 0.00% |
Average building architect salary over time
Building architect salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $89,404 | $42.98 | +1.9% |
| 2024 | $87,698 | $42.16 | +1.7% |
| 2023 | $86,211 | $41.45 | +1.2% |
| 2022 | $85,222 | $40.97 | +2.0% |
| 2021 | $83,550 | $40.17 | +1.1% |
Building architect jobs by state
Most common states for building architects
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 230 | 33% |
| 2 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 151 | 20% |
| 3 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 919 | 15% |
| 4 | Illinois | 12,802,023 | 1,628 | 13% |
| 5 | New Jersey | 9,005,644 | 1,129 | 13% |
| 6 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 739 | 13% |
| 7 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 711 | 13% |
| 8 | Connecticut | 3,588,184 | 475 | 13% |
| 9 | Delaware | 961,939 | 123 | 13% |
| 10 | Georgia | 10,429,379 | 1,275 | 12% |
| 11 | North Carolina | 10,273,419 | 1,191 | 12% |
| 12 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 894 | 12% |
| 13 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 166 | 12% |
| 14 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 125 | 12% |
| 15 | Idaho | 1,716,943 | 181 | 11% |
| 16 | Pennsylvania | 12,805,537 | 1,322 | 10% |
| 17 | Arizona | 7,016,270 | 678 | 10% |
| 18 | Missouri | 6,113,532 | 613 | 10% |
| 19 | Alaska | 739,795 | 72 | 10% |
| 20 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 57 | 10% |
Most common cities for building architects
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Gallatin | 1 | 3% | $81,893 |
| 2 | La Vergne | 1 | 3% | $81,666 |
| 3 | Lebanon | 1 | 3% | $81,807 |
| 4 | Mount Juliet | 1 | 3% | $81,788 |
| 5 | Brentwood | 1 | 2% | $81,659 |
| 6 | Hendersonville | 1 | 2% | $81,840 |
| 7 | Lenexa | 1 | 2% | $76,039 |
| 8 | Smyrna | 1 | 2% | $81,651 |
| 9 | Franklin | 1 | 1% | $81,586 |
| 10 | Murfreesboro | 1 | 1% | $81,582 |
Building Architect job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of building architect experts
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Missouri University of Science and Technology
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
University of Florida
University of Nevada - Las Vegas
SUNY at Buffalo
University of Nevada - Las Vegas
University of Oregon
University Of Nevada, Las Vegas
University of Idaho
Southern Illinois University Carbondale
The Catholic University of America
University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee
University at Buffalo – The State University of New York
Seminole State College of Florida
The Pennsylvania State University
Dr. Steven Van Dessel Ph.D. Assoc. AIA
Associate Professor, Director Architectural Engineering ProgramWorcester Polytechnic Institute
Architectural Engineering
What general advice would you give to a Building Architect?
Dr. Steven Van Dessel Ph.D. Assoc. AIA: Employers always stress the importance of students knowing the fundamentals of engineering and the integration of engineering fundamentals with architectural design. Our program is quite unique in this respect as we are the only degree program in the country where students can earn an architectural engineering degree that is ABET accredited (they can get their PE) - and then also can gain their NAAB accredited architecture degree with one additional year (allowing them to also become architects). Knowledge of building information modeling is required, and I would think that AI at some point will also play a role when combined with advanced surveying technologies.
What will help Building Architects increase their earning potential?
Rebecca Dolgas: 1. Pay attention to firm culture and benefits. You will be working long hours and closely with your team, you want to make sure these are people you could see yourself being comfortable around. In particular when it comes to mistakes. Most people take a little bit to adjust to their job. The first few months will be hard and you WILL mess up, that's okay just make sure that you are working for and with people who will help you to make corrections and continue to grow. Along the lines of growth, see what support systems they have for licensure. Testing is a time consuming and expensive process and many firms will help to cover these costs and the required time off, just be sure to ask.
Heath Pickerill PhD
Assistant Teaching ProfessorMissouri University of Science and Technology
Architectural Engineering
What Building Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Heath Pickerill PhD: Being competent in CAD software, especially 3D modeling such as Revit, as well as demonstrating strong project management skills, which can be honed through leadership opportunities in professional organizations and design teams. Graduates should also understand the ethical implications and limitations of AI software in the production of written documents and basic design solutions.
What Building Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Paul Pettigrew AIA, NCARB, MIT M.Arch ʼ88: Adaptability, the ability and desire to constantly learn new tools, techniques, business practices, and construction technologies/methodologies. The architecture profession has changed dramatically since the introduction of computers into practice, and all indications are that architectural practice will continue to change as computers, fabrication machines that talk to and work with computers, and technologies related to issues of sustainability, continue to adapt to the economics, business, practice, and significance of the architecture profession.
What general advice would you give to a Building Architect?
Martin Gold FAIA: The most widespread complaint from people in the field is that it consumes ones attention, requires long hours, and relative to other professions, such as medicine, law, accounting, or engineering, the pay is lower on a per hour basis. On the other hand, architecture is more of an art than other professions and offers opportunities for creative people to have prosperous careers. The famous French architect Le Corbusier would say, architecture is a way of life.
What Building Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Martin Gold FAIA: The economy is historically dynamic and the field of architecture generally follows the economy so there are highs and lows. That said, there is always work in urban planning, historic preservation, adaptive reuse of buildings, and the need for new buildings. At the time of this writing, there is a trend to transform office buildings into residential uses as people work remotely much more often. This would be akin to the transformation of warehouse spaces into residential lofts in urban areas around the US in the 1990’s as manufacturing and shipping ports moved out of urban areas of the city. In the foreseeable future, there will always be a need for architects and associated professions to continue to improve on the constructed world in which we live.
What Building Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Grant Mosey Ph.D.: I would advise architecture students to be as flexible as possible. While NAAB accredited schools award 6,000 to 7,000 professional degrees per year, NCARB states that fewer than 3,500 architects reach licensure each year. This suggests that many of those educated as architects are actually finding work in allied subjects. I know of many graduates who are set to become architects who end up becoming real estate professionals, construction professionals, policy-makers, academics, and more. Even for those dead set on architectural practice, these opportunities in adjacent fields can open doors to more design-focused practice.
What Building Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Elaine Chow AIA, RA, NCARB: Architecture licensure will help maximize salary potential, as well as pursuing other certifications such as LEED, CPHC, WELL, etc. Be your own advocate and request regular/annual reviews that allow you to highlight accomplishments and value you bring to your employer. If specialization appeals to you, there are opportunities to market yourself as an expert in a specific subject area.
What will help Building Architects increase their earning potential?
Elaine Chow AIA, RA, NCARB: Continue being a student throughout your career since learning never stops, especially in architecture where the knowledge is vast and first-hand experience is valuable. There are many facets to the architecture profession, when first graduating try to explore different roles to see what interests you and challenges you best.
What general advice would you give to a Building Architect?
Alfredo Fernandez-Gonzalez: It is important for recent graduates to recognize that Architecture is no longer limited to the physical realm, as transformative technologies are providing interesting career opportunities in the digital realm as well. This rapidly evolving context offers many opportunities and new directions for the discipline and remaining (or becoming!) current in new developments in computing power, digital visuals, manufacturing technologies, and robotics, are ways in which a recent graduate can secure a good paying job.
What Building Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Alfredo Fernandez-Gonzalez: Globally, there is significant demand for architects who are facile in the use of transformative technologies that support designers to generate and evaluate innovative ideas to provide solutions in a rapidly changing environment. Needless to say, being extremely competent in the many applications of Building Information Modeling (BIM), Extended Reality (XR), Generative Design, and Sustainability, will make new graduates effective at a time in which the profession and the world are rapidly transforming.
What general advice would you give to a Building Architect?
Dr. Alison Kwok PhD, RA, FAIA, LEED BD+C, CPHC: Diversify your experiences (and expectations); gain knowledge in a variety of different areas and certifications. Curate your portfolio to show a range of the kinds of work that you're able to offer. Get out of the comfort zone of doing only what you know "how to do" and challenge with incremental bits of knowledge.
Dak Kopec Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Coordinator, BA Interior Architecture and Design and Master of Design ProgramUniversity Of Nevada, Las Vegas
School of Architecture
What experience really stands out on Building Architect resumes?
Dak Kopec Ph.D.: Experience in the areas where one intends to practice. If someone wants to work in hospitality design, an employer will see what kind of experience they have. This is why selecting one's internship location is so important.
Many employers are also looking to see how well the Interior Designer can think outside the box and develop innovative design ideas.
An area of specialized knowledge that will complement the existing design team. Most firms are looking for future leaders.
What Building Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dak Kopec Ph.D.: Design thinking. This can be done by looking for certificates or attending a series of seminars. The COVID-19 virus has opened up numerous opportunities to shape an Interior Designer's scope. Using Design Thinking as a means to solve problems will enhance a person's marketability.
Additionally, I would recommend learning about disease transmission and pathology. With a stronger foundation in these areas, the interior designer will be better equipped to address the infection control expectations that will likely be required of future Interior Designers.
What technology do you think will become more important and prevalent for Building Architects in the next 3-5 years?
Dak Kopec Ph.D.: COVID-19 has changed the playing field, and future skills will need to include creative ways to use materials and systems for enhanced infection control. This will consist of thinking differently about ventilation systems, space planning, and material specifications.
Randall Randall
Program Head Architecture, ProfessorUniversity of Idaho
Architecture Department
What hard/technical skills are most important for Building Architects?
Randall Randall: Adept with hand-drawing, model making, CAD, and graphics software (photoshop, illustrator). Experience with some kind of hands-on-making/construction is a plus.
Anonymous Professor
How have salaries changed over time for Building Architects?
Anonymous Professor : With regard to money and employment compensation ... those who can be willing to try new things and move with the flow will do well ... very well. Those who cannot, it's McDonald's and minimum wage ...
A footnote: ... the people I contact do not care about who you are, what you are, or how you are. So things like pronouns, and victimization, and excuses, and hanging on to reasons for failure will not cut it in the workplace of the future ... learn ... grow ... and you will have success ...
What certifications/licenses/courses can have the biggest impact for Building Architects?
Anonymous Professor : With regard to student graduates with the license issue and their potential, it's all about and their ability to think ... my contacts tell me that they want people who can look outside the box ... and be flexible to change ... and make no mistake about it ... the future is all about a willingness to change and be flexible to change. Professional license requirements is a think of the past ... it's all about what you can do now.
Michael Brazley Ph.D.
Associate Professor of ArchitectureSouthern Illinois University Carbondale
School of Architecture
What Building Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Michael Brazley Ph.D.: Architectural Graduates will have to have very strong computer skills; not just in drawing but in writing also. Graduates will need to know the latest software, and in many cases, help to introduce the latest software to their new companies. Students are learning to make 3D digital videos and virtual reality models.
What general advice would you give to a Building Architect?
Michael Brazley Ph.D.: Work experience in an architect's office is best.
Robin Puttock
Interim Associate Dean for Undergraduate Studies, Visiting Assistant ProfessorThe Catholic University of America
School of Architecture and Planning
What general advice would you give to a Building Architect?
Robin Puttock: In addition to all of the above, I recommend students stay connected with their professors. Most of us have a vast network that we would love to invite you into. Often, an introduction is the pivotal component to a new opportunity. Relationships are key, especially when a recent graduate does not have significant professional experience. In addition, recent graduates should be sure to spend time on crafting their cover letters, their resumes, their work samples, and their portfolios. Make sure you are putting your best foot forward when an opportunity does arise.
What skills stand out on Building Architect resumes?
James Shields: Many interviews for architecture jobs remain online at the present time, so an ability to communicate via Zoom or Teams is vital. Looking professional on the small screen with an ability to show your work well are skills that can be practiced before an interview. Most architecture employees are currently working online from home, so knowledge of the essential digital architecture programs (like Revit, Bluebeam, Sketchup, et al) is currently very important. On resumes and in portfolios, any experience in the architecture sectors that have remained relatively stable (Housing, Master Planning, Science & Tech, Schools, sustainable infrastructure) should be emphasized. If you have no such experience, read up on current trends in these practice areas online and find some that interest you. Conveying such an interest can go a long way.
What skills stand out on Building Architect resumes?
Korydon Smith: Integrative thinking, a core competency in architecture, will become all the more important across sectors. Problem solving amidst complexity, resource constraints, and dynamic factors is what architects do; all businesses will need people that think this way.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Building Architects to find work opportunities?
Korydon Smith: Architectural work tends to be in population centers. Architectural practice has become globalized, where many firms work in multiple cities in the U.S. and abroad. Growth in mid- and large-sized cities in the U.S. will continue; likewise for Europe and Asia. Latin America and Africa are emergent markets.
Christy Graves
Professor/Program ManagerSeminole State College of Florida
School of Engineering, Design and Construction
What technology do you think will become more important and prevalent for Building Architects in the next 3-5 years?
Christy Graves: BIM (building information modeling) technology will continue to become more important in the architectural engineering technology profession.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Building Architect job market given the pandemic?
Christy Graves: From what I've seen, I believe job opportunities will continue to be available for architectural technology engineering graduates. While many industries have suffered from layoffs and unemployment during this pandemic, it seems that the built environment is still going strong. I think one of the biggest changes we may see is that once the pandemic is over, many employees are going to work remotely full-time, or the amount of time that was previously spent in the office environment will decrease.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Building Architects to find work opportunities?
Ross Weinreb: Not that I am aware of. Our Penn State graduates generally find work in the Northeast (Philadelphia, New York, etc.).