Architects
Salary, job outlook, AI risk & career information
Median Salary
$96,690
~$46/hr · ~$8,058/mo
US Jobs
124K
As fast as average
AI & Automation Risk
7/10
High Risk
AI & Automation Risk
High Risk 7/10
Architects perform high-level knowledge work that is increasingly digital, utilizing CADD and BIM software which is highly susceptible to AI-driven automation in generative design and technical documentation. While the role requires physical site visits and complex client negotiations, a significant portion of the core work—drafting, specification writing, and regulatory compliance—is moving toward high AI integration.
Salary by City — What You Actually Take Home
Real purchasing power = salary adjusted for cost of living. Higher = more money in your pocket.
| City | Local Salary | Cost of Living | Real Purchasing Power |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waco, TXBEST VALUE | $119,340 | Below avg (91.1) | $130,949 |
| Dayton-Kettering-Beavercreek, OH | $113,010 | Below avg (92.4) | $122,336 |
| Atlantic City-Hammonton, NJ | $120,170 | Average (98.9) | $121,500 |
| Rapid City, SD | $107,240 | Below avg (90.3) | $118,764 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA | $134,200 | Above avg (113.1) | $118,699 |
| Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk, VA-NC | $114,630 | Average (97.7) | $117,302 |
| Springfield, IL | $105,770 | Below avg (90.7) | $116,678 |
| Winchester, VA-WV | $109,120 | Below avg (94.6) | $115,400 |
| Glens Falls, NY | $108,220 | Below avg (94.1) | $115,063 |
| Killeen-Temple, TX | $104,380 | Below avg (92.3) | $113,046 |
| Ithaca, NY | $110,940 | Average (99.5) | $111,466 |
| Sioux Falls, SD-MN | $99,410 | Below avg (90.1) | $110,344 |
| Davenport-Moline-Rock Island, IA-IL | $97,160 | Below avg (89.2) | $108,969 |
| Kennewick-Richland, WA | $107,660 | Average (98.9) | $108,874 |
| Savannah, GA | $104,330 | Below avg (95.9) | $108,781 |
Cost of Living Index: 100 = US national average. Below 100 = cheaper. Above 100 = more expensive.
Education & Requirements
Education Required
Bachelor's degree
10-Year Growth
+4% (As fast as average)
Hourly Rate
~$46/hr
Monthly Income
~$8,058/mo
Related Careers
Data: Bureau of Labor Statistics OOH (2024)