The average architect salary in California is $104,000 per year. Entry-level architects earn around $65,000, while senior architects can make over $150,000 annually. Salaries vary by experience, location, and firm size, with metropolitan areas like San Francisco and Los Angeles offering the highest wages.
Average Architect Salary in California
Architects in California earn an average of $104,000 per year, based on statewide data. Entry-level professionals start at around $60,950, while senior architects earn over $150,000 annually. Salaries increase with experience and specialization, especially in high-demand urban centers.
Architect Salaries by City in California
San Francisco architects earn the highest salaries in the state, averaging $136,770 per year. Architects in San Jose follow closely at $136,190, while those in Vallejo earn about $128,060. In Los Angeles, average pay drops to approximately $85,000. Other cities like San Diego, Santa Clara, Oakland, and Irvine offer competitive pay, depending on local demand, firm size, and project volume.
Architect Salaries in California (USD)
| Experience Level/Location | Average Salary | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| General Average (California) | $112,210 | $98,610 – $151,368 |
| San Francisco | $136,770 | $122,000 – $153,228 |
| San Jose | $136,190 | $123,720 – $167,000 |
| Vallejo | $128,060 | Not Specified |
| Los Angeles | $85,000 | Not Specified |
| Entry-Level Architects | ~$60,950 | $60,950 – $98,610 |
| Experienced Architects (4–6 yrs) | ~$105,000 | Not Specified |
| Senior Architects (7–9 yrs) | ~$151,368 | Not Specified |
Experience Level and Salary Growth
Architect salaries increase steadily with experience. Entry-level architects earn about $60,950 per year, while those with 4 to 6 years of experience make around $105,000. Architects in senior roles or project manager positions can exceed $151,000 annually, especially in large cities and established firms.
Industry and Specialization Impact
Architects who focus on green building, sustainable design, or high-tech projects earn higher salaries. Specialized roles in scientific research or insurance-related design average over $140,000 per year. These positions are in high demand and often located in areas like Santa Clara and San Francisco, where major developers seek skilled professionals.
Freelance vs Full-Time Architect Pay
Freelance architects charge hourly or per-project rates, which can result in higher short-term earnings. However, full-time architects receive steady pay, benefits, and vacation time, offering more financial stability. Freelance income depends on workload and client demand.
Licensing, Education, and Certification
Architects with a Master of Architecture (M.Arch) and NCARB certification earn more. Licensed professionals are eligible for higher roles, such as designer lead, project manager, or firm partner. Advanced credentials are often required in cities like Oakland, Irvine, and San Diego.
Outlook and Salary Trends
Architect salaries in California are expected to rise through 2025, driven by housing demand, green infrastructure, and rapid urban growth. Firms across the state are actively seeking licensed architects to join teams managing complex projects. Cities like Irvine, Oakland, and San Diego show the strongest growth in employment demand.
Popular Quesitons
Below are common questions we get asked about this topic.
How does specialization affect architect salaries in California?
Specialized architects in green building or research fields earn over $140,000 per year, reflecting strong demand for their skills.
Are freelance architects compensated differently than full-time employees?
Yes. Freelancers often earn more per hour, but full-time roles offer stable income, benefits, and paid vacation.
What benefits are typically included in an architect’s salary package?
Higher wages in cities like San Francisco offset local living costs, but architects in lower-cost regions may enjoy better savings and purchasing power.
How does the cost of living in California impact architect salaries?
Higher wages in cities like San Francisco offset local living costs, but architects in lower-cost regions may enjoy better savings and purchasing power.
