Commercial and Industrial Designers: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 30,250 commercial and industrial designers, and they earn a median of $79,450/year. The range runs from $49K to $135K. Washington pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level commercial and industrial designers start around $49K. The gap between that and the median ($79K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $135K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Washington | $107K | 450 |
| Kansas | $100K | 250 |
| Massachusetts | $99K | 1,020 |
| Indiana | $94K | 400 |
| Rhode Island | $93K | 210 |
| California | $93K | 4,530 |
| Nevada | $88K | 170 |
| Michigan | $85K | 2,580 |
| New York | $85K | 2,140 |
| South Carolina | $84K | 470 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a commercial and industrial designers make?▼
The median commercial and industrial designers salary in the United States is $79,450 per year ($38/hour). Entry-level positions start around $49,390, while experienced professionals earn up to $134,840.
What education do you need to become a commercial and industrial designers?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for commercial and industrial designers?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for commercial and industrial designers.
What are the highest paying states for commercial and industrial designers?▼
The highest paying states for commercial and industrial designers are Washington ($106,720), Kansas ($100,010), Massachusetts ($99,310), Indiana ($93,860), Rhode Island ($93,340). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.