ArchitectureOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Interior Designer Salary in Washington DC
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$146,038/yr
Typical range: $130,297 – $159,247
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Interior Designer salary by experience level in Washington DC
Interior Designer Salary Progression in Washington DC
From entry-level through staff — based on BLS OEWS percentile data
| Experience Level | Years | Percentile | Annual Salary | Monthly | vs Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | 0 yrs | 0 yrs | $70,933 | $5,911 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $87,623 | $7,302 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $98,750 | $8,229 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $112,658 | $9,388 | +59% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $146,038 | $12,170 | +106% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $177,749 | $14,812 | +151% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $185,677 | $15,473 | +162% |
Current Salary
$146,038
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $70/hr
Next Level Target
$177,749
Principal · 14
+$32Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
35/100
Below Average
+5% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Interior Designer salary in Washington DC, DC?
Staff / Lead Interior Designers in Washington DC, DC earn approximately $146K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Interior Designer make per hour in Washington DC, DC?
Based on $146K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $70/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Interior Designer in Washington DC, DC?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Interior Designer in Washington DC, DC earns $130K–$159K/yr.