There are currently an estimated 66,500 interior designers in the United States. The interior designer job market is expected to grow by 4.5% between 2016 and 2026.

How employable are interior designers?

CareerExplorer rates interior designers with a D employability rating, meaning this career should provide weak employment opportunities for the foreseeable future. Over the next 10 years, it is expected the US will need 8,600 interior designers. That number is based on 3,000 additional interior designers, and the retirement of 5,600 existing interior designers.

Are interior designers in demand?

Interior design services may be affected by fluctuations in the economy, such as decreases in consumer and business income and spending. Interior designers that possess formal training or have had some experience in green or energy efficient-design are expected to have better employability prospects. There is currently a demand for industrial interior designers in housing developments, offices, restaurants, hospital complexes, senior care facilities, hotels, and other large building projects. Research by the Advisory Council of the International Interior Designers Association suggests that clients in all markets will develop greater appreciation for the value of interior design work and increased respect for the interior professional’s expertise. To promote employee health and safety, businesses will rely more heavily on designers to create interior spaces that will positively impact workplace performance. Technology is also expected to impact the production of design materials and create the need for multidisciplinary design, resulting in a more competitive job market favouring professionals familiar and comfortable with technology.

What’s the supply of interior designers?

The interior designer industry is concentrated in California, Florida, Texas

Interior Designer job market by state

State Name Employed Interior Designers
California 8,130
Florida 4,380
Texas 4,160
New York 3,990
Illinois 2,380
Georgia 2,010
Ohio 2,000
Colorado 1,790
Michigan 1,740
New Jersey 1,620
Massachusetts 1,570
Pennsylvania 1,520
Virginia 1,440
Maryland 1,440
North Carolina 1,360
Washington 1,330
Wisconsin 1,260
Missouri 1,170
Minnesota 1,100
Tennessee 950
Arizona 910
Indiana 900
District of Columbia 670
Alabama 600
Oregon 590
Nevada 570
Kansas 510
Oklahoma 470
South Carolina 440
Kentucky 430
Utah 400
Iowa 360
Arkansas 340
Louisiana 320
Rhode Island 290
North Dakota 260
Nebraska 240
Maine 210
Delaware 160
New Hampshire 160
Mississippi 140
Idaho 130
New Mexico 130
South Dakota 130
Montana 110
Hawaii 90
Vermont 80
Puerto Rico 70
West Virginia 60
Alaska 40
Wyoming 30