How Much Do Interior Designers Make

A Deep Dive into Interior Designer Salaries in Sydney

Interior design is more than just making a space look beautiful—it’s about creating functional, safe, and aesthetically pleasing environments that reflect personality, lifestyle, and brand identity. With growing interest in home makeovers, renovations, and commercial fit-outs, interior designers are in demand more than ever. But one common question that often arises is: how much interior designers make?

If you’re considering a career in interior design or thinking of hiring a designer in Australia, particularly in Sydney, understanding interior designer salaries can help you set realistic expectations. In this guide, we explore average earnings, what influences those numbers, and how the Sydney market compares on a national and global scale.

Before narrowing down to Sydney, let’s look at the broader picture in Australia. According to the latest data:

• Entry-Level Interior Designers in Australia earn approximately $50,000 to $60,000 per year.

• Mid-Level Interior Designers (with 3-5 years of experience) typically make around $65,000 to $85,000 annually.

• Senior Interior Designers or those with 5+ years of experience often earn between $90,000 to $120,000 per year, or even more depending on the firm and clientele.

Of course, salaries can vary depending on several factors, such as location, education, experience, specialization, and the type of company you work for.

Sydney is known as Australia’s design capital—home to countless luxury homes, boutique commercial projects, and high-end residential developments. Naturally, this influences how much interior designers make in this city.

Here’s what you can expect if you’re working as an interior designer in Sydney:

🔹 Entry-Level Interior Designers in Sydney

New graduates or designers with less than 2 years of experience usually earn between $55,000 and $65,000 annually. This is slightly higher than the national average, thanks to Sydney’s higher living costs and booming real estate and renovation sectors.

🔹 Mid-Level Interior Designers in Sydney

Designers with 3 to 5 years of experience typically earn between $70,000 and $90,000 per year. Many work in design consultancies, architectural firms, or run their own freelance businesses by this point.

🔹 Senior Interior Designers in Sydney

Experienced designers, especially those working with luxury projects or commercial spaces, can earn $100,000 to $150,000+ annually. Some designers even charge premium fees for bespoke interior styling, full home renovations, or office fit-outs.

One of the biggest variables that affect how much an interior designer makes is whether they are salaried employees or self-employed/freelance professionals.

Freelance Interior Designers in Sydney

Freelancers often have the potential to earn much more than salaried designers, depending on their portfolio, reputation, and client base.

• Hourly Rate: Freelancers in Sydney charge anywhere from $60 to $200 per hour.

• Per Project: Project fees can range from $2,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on scope, space, and style.

• Consultation Fees: Many interior designers charge a flat rate consultation fee, ranging from $150 to $500+.

Freelancers also have the advantage of flexible schedules and the freedom to choose projects, but they must manage their own marketing, client communication, and business operations.

Salaried Interior Designers

Salaried positions offer job security and structured career growth. However, the trade-off is often a fixed income, limited bonus potential, and less creative freedom compared to freelancing.

Several factors can impact how much an interior designer makes, especially in a competitive city like Sydney:

1. Experience and Skill Level

Naturally, a more experienced designer will command a higher rate. But it’s not just about years—it’s also about the designer’s ability to bring creative, functional, and budget-conscious solutions to the table.

2. Specialization

Designers who specialize in high-end residential, commercial, or sustainable eco-friendly interiors often earn more. Niches like luxury renovations, smart home integrations, or interior styling for property staging can be highly lucrative.

3. Education and Certifications

Having a degree in interior design or certification from a recognized design institute can enhance credibility and lead to better job offers or client trust.

4. Portfolio and Reputation

A strong portfolio showcasing a range of design styles can lead to higher-paying clients. Word-of-mouth referrals and a good reputation in the Sydney market can significantly boost income.

5. Location and Demographics

Interior designers working in Sydney’s affluent suburbs like Mosman, Paddington, Vaucluse, or Balmain tend to attract clients with higher budgets—meaning higher earnings.

If you’re already in the industry or planning to enter it, here are a few proven tips to grow your income:

1. Build a Solid Portfolio – Showcase before/after transformations, mood boards, and 3D renders.

2. Develop Your Brand – Whether you’re freelancing or starting a studio, a strong brand helps you stand out.

3. Leverage Social Media – Platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and LinkedIn can attract leads.

4. Offer Consultation Services – Start with one-off design consultations to build clientele.

5. Attend Industry Events – Network with real estate agents, developers, and furniture brands.

6. Continue Learning – Stay updated on trends, technology, and sustainable practices.

So, how much do interior designers make in Sydney? The short answer: it depends, but the earning potential is solid—especially for those with experience, a strong portfolio, and an eye for detail.

• Starting out, you can expect $55,000–$65,000.

• With experience, income grows to $90,000+.

• Freelancers and senior designers can earn well over six figures, especially when managing large-scale residential or commercial projects.

Whether you’re dreaming of becoming an interior designer in Sydney or looking to hire one, knowing the salary landscape helps you make smarter choices.

If you’re looking for affordable and professional interior designers in Sydney, reach out to our expert team at Mood Living. We offer tailored interior styling, home staging, and complete interior makeover services that are designed to elevate your lifestyle and enhance your property’s value. Let Mood Living curate a space that’s not only beautiful but also uniquely you.