How to Become a Interior Designers in California
Interior Designers in California earn a median salary of $77,360/year, which is 22% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~4.3%. After taxes and rent, a interior designers takes home approximately $3,544/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a interior designers can afford in California
Becoming a interior designers in California
Meet education requirements
Interior Designers positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many interior designers positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for interior designerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 8,360 interior designers. The highest concentrations are in San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles and San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara.
Interior Designers salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $84K | $40.18/hr | 40 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $80K | $38.37/hr | 300 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $79K | $38.15/hr | 100 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $79K | $37.98/hr | 580 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $79K | $37.82/hr | 1,860 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $77K | $37.01/hr | 4,030 |
| Napa | $76K | $36.4/hr | 40 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $75K | $36.14/hr | 290 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $75K | $35.86/hr | 130 |
| Salinas | $74K | $35.47/hr | 50 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $70K | $33.74/hr | 340 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $66K | $31.52/hr | 90 |
| Fresno | $65K | $31.37/hr | 70 |
Interior Designers salary range in California
Interior Designers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a interior designers make in California?▼
The median interior designers salary in California is $77,360 per year ($37.19/hr). This is 22% above the national median of $63,490. Salaries range from $46,540 to $131,870.
What are the requirements to become a interior designers in California?▼
Interior Designers positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a interior designers afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $77,360, a interior designers in California would take home approximately $4,956/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 28.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for interior designers in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for interior designers in California are San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles ($83,580), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($79,800), Santa Maria-Santa Barbara ($79,350). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for interior designers?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.3%. On a $77,360 salary, this means roughly $3,332/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.