Thursday, March 19: 1855 Broadway Reopens

As of Thursday, March 19, all buildings on the New York City campus, including the Edward Guiliano Global Center at 1855 Broadway, will be open with full services.

Industry Trends & Projections

Job Growth

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of architects in the U.S. in projected to grow by 4-5 percent from 2024 – 2034, which is considered as fast as the average for all occupations. Roughly 7,800 to 8,200 openings are expected annually, driven largely by the need to replace workers retiring or changing professions. Growth is fueled by demand for new, sustainable, and renovated buildings. 

Additional Takeaways

  • Salary Information: The median annual wage for architects was $97,310 in May 2024, significantly higher than the median for all occupations.
  • Regional Demand: States with high demand for architectural services include Tennessee, Kansas, Illinois, Utah, South Carolina, and Arizona. 
  • Efficiency Impacts: While the field is growing, some projections suggest a slower rate in certain sectors due to increased efficiency from computer-aided design (CAD) tools.
  • Replacement Needs: A significant portion of job openings will come from replacing workers who retire or change careers.
  • Economic Sensitivity: The industry is sensitive to economic fluctuations, with growth heavily tied to commercial and residential development. 

Salary Projections

Key 2025-2026 Salary Projections & Data for Architects

  • Median Salary: $96,690 – $100,000+ per year.
  • Top 10% Earners: $159,800 – $201,000+.
  • New York (High-Cost Area): Average salaries range from $119,182 to $140,863
  • Projected Growth: 4% (2024–2034). 

Factors Influencing Compensation

  • Licensure: Licensed architects command significantly higher pay.
  • Position: Senior architects often earn over $120,000+, while firm principals can exceed $125,000.
  • Location: Major metropolitan areas like New York and coastal cities offer higher salaries, with firms in New York County showing top-tier compensation over $140,000.
  • Industry: Top paying sectors include government and specialized architecture/engineering firms. 
  • Salary increases are expected to continue to outpace inflation in some regions.
  • Demand remains high for specialists in sustainable design and complex, large-scale projects.