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Arts & Media · New York

How to Become a Interior Designers in New York

Interior Designers in New York earn a median salary of $73,630/year, which is 16% above the national average. New York has a state income tax of ~4.7%. After taxes and rent, a interior designers takes home approximately $3,316/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.

$74K
Median salary in New York
+16%
vs. national average
4.7%
State income tax
5,590
Employed in New York

What a interior designers can afford in New York

Gross annual salary$73,630
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.7% state tax)$4,728/mo
Median 2BR rent (New York)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home29.9% (within guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$73,630/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$3,316/mo

Becoming a interior designers in New York

1

Meet education requirements

Interior Designers positions in New York typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across New York. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many interior designers positions in New York require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain New York licensure or certification

New York may require specific licensing or professional certification for interior designerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the New York Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in New York

New York employs 5,590 interior designers. The highest concentrations are in New York-Newark-Jersey City and Albany-Schenectady-Troy.

Interior Designers salary by metro area in New York

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
New York-Newark-Jersey City$77K$36.96/hr5,660
Albany-Schenectady-Troy$60K$28.8/hr140
Buffalo-Cheektowaga$55K$26.29/hr160
Syracuse$53K$25.61/hr70
Rochester$52K$24.77/hr160
Utica-Rome$50K$24.03/hr30

Interior Designers salary range in New York

10th percentile (entry)
$46K
25th percentile
$56K
Median (50th)
$74K
75th percentile
$97K
90th percentile (senior)
$110K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a interior designers make in New York?

The median interior designers salary in New York is $73,630 per year ($35.4/hr). This is 16% above the national median of $63,490. Salaries range from $46,200 to $109,980.

What are the requirements to become a interior designers in New York?

Interior Designers positions in New York typically require Bachelor's degree. New York may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the New York licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a interior designers afford to live in New York?

At the median salary of $73,630, a interior designers in New York would take home approximately $4,728/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 29.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for interior designers in New York?

The highest paying metro areas for interior designers in New York are New York-Newark-Jersey City ($76,880), Albany-Schenectady-Troy ($59,900), Buffalo-Cheektowaga ($54,690). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does New York have state income tax for interior designers?

Yes, New York has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.7%. On a $73,630 salary, this means roughly $3,445/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.