Interior Design Major — Salary & ROI 2026
Design of interior spaces for functionality, safety, and aesthetic appeal.
Starting Salary
$42K
median
Mid-Career
$62K
salary
ROI Payback
5.8 yrs
avg payback
Unemployment
4%
rate
Interior Design Overview
Design of interior spaces for functionality, safety, and aesthetic appeal.
Category
Arts & Design
Degree Level
Bachelor's
Graduation Rate
65%
Enrollment Trend
stable
Online Available
Yes
Underemployment
22%
Lifetime Premium
$300K
Female Graduates
85%
Interior Design Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your actual return on investment based on school type and scholarships.
0 to $40K/year in aid
Est. Total Cost
$17,100
4-year tuition
Net Cost (w/ aid)
$17,100
after scholarships
ROI Payback
2 years
to break even
Lifetime Return
$282,900
Lifetime earnings premium ($300,000) minus net degree cost ($17,100)
Interior Design Salary Progression
Common Interior Design Careers
Interior Designer
Space Planner
Design Consultant
Top Employers
Skills You'll Learn
Top Schools for Interior Design
#1
Pratt
#2
RISD
#3
Savannah College of Art and Design
#4
Parsons
#5
Cornell
Related Majors
Interior Design Degree FAQ
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