Best Country for Interior Designer Jobs 2026: Maximise Your Skills
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Best country for Interior Designer jobs 2026 highlights top destinations like Switzerland, the USA, Canada, Australia, and Denmark, covering salary levels, portfolio, and skill requirements for interior designers abroad.
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Choosing the best country for Interior Designer jobs 2026 depends on where strong salaries meet steady demand and creative freedom. Countries like Switzerland, the USA, Canada, Australia, Germany, the Netherlands, and the Nordic nations continue to invest heavily in real estate, urban development, and sustainable design. This has created consistent opportunities for skilled interior designers across residential, commercial, and hospitality sectors.
In 2026, interior designers are finding better career growth in markets that value design innovation, green architecture, and global design standards. European hubs such as Switzerland, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands offer high pay, while countries like Australia, Canada, and New Zealand attract professionals with balanced work cultures. You’ll find a detailed country-wise outlook, salary insights, and more in this blog.
Top 10 Highest Paying Countries for Interior Designers
The highest paying countries for Interior designer jobs in 2026 include Switzerland, Luxembourg, Norway, etc. These countries offer diverse career opportunities, driven by thriving real estate markets, strong economies, etc.
|
Rank |
Country |
Average Salary |
Salary (in USD) |
|
1 |
Switzerland |
CHF 1,00,000 |
126,484 |
|
2 |
Luxembourg |
EUR 81,704 |
96,132 |
|
3 |
United States of America |
USD 75,000 |
75,000 |
|
4 |
Norway |
NOK 731,137 |
72,798 |
|
5 |
Denmark |
DKK 457,300 |
72,053 |
|
6 |
Australia |
AUD 85,000 |
56,944 |
|
7 |
Canada |
CAD 64,350 |
46,995 |
|
8 |
Germany |
EUR 36,159 |
42,521 |
|
9 |
Netherlands |
EUR 36,318 |
42,708 |
|
10 |
New Zealand |
NZD 65,994 |
38,285 |
Also Read: How to Apply for Jobs Abroad Online?
1. Switzerland
If you're looking for a high-paying career in interior design, you may want to consider Switzerland.
- When it comes to job satisfaction, Swiss interior designers are among the happiest in the world.
- So if you're considering a career in interior design, Switzerland is definitely worth considering. Not only will you earn a high salary, but you'll also be happy in your work.
Entry-level salary: Around CHF 85,000 per year for designers starting their careers
Experienced salary: Can go up to CHF 1,25,000 annually with strong expertise
Top 3 Companies
- Upscale Interiors AG
- Martinuzzi Interiors
- Eb Projekt Design GmbH
2. Luxembourg
Luxembourg is one of the best countries for interior design jobs. There are a number of reasons why interior designers in Luxembourg are so well paid.
- The first reason is that there is a high demand for luxury goods and services in Luxembourg. As one of the world's wealthiest countries, Luxembourg has a lot of millionaires and billionaires who are willing to pay top dollar for high-end design services.
- Secondly, the cost of living in Luxembourg is relatively high, so interior designers need to be paid more to maintain their standard of living.
- Finally, the government provides significant tax incentives for businesses to locate in Luxembourg, which helps to drive up wages for all workers, including interior designers.
Entry-level salary: Approximately EUR 53,747 per year.
Experienced salary: Senior professionals earn up to EUR 91,392 annually.
Top 3 Companies
- Emeline Interiors
- Live Touch
- CC Concept
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3. United States
There is a reason the United States is one of the most popular places to pursue a career in interior design. Not only are there many opportunities for designers to find work, but the average salary for an interior designer in the US is quite high.
- The United States offers some of the highest interior design salaries due to its large-scale real estate, commercial, and luxury residential markets, especially in cities like New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco.
- With strong demand across corporate offices, hospitality, healthcare, and residential projects, interior designers in the USA benefit from diverse roles, steady job growth, and access to global design firms.
Entry-level Salary: Around USD 55,000 per year for designers with minimal experience.
Experienced Salary: Can reach USD 1,00,000+ annually with 10+ years of experience.
Top 3 Companies
- Gensler
- Jacobs
- Perkins & Will
4. Norway
Norway is a small country with a high standard of living. Oslo, the capital, is home to many design firms and international companies. With a strong economy, Norway is one of the best places to be an interior designer.
There are many reasons why interior designers in Norway earn such high salaries.
- First of all, there is a high demand for their services. Due to the small size of the country, there are not enough local designers to meet all the demand.
- This means that firms have to compete for talent and are willing to pay top dollar for it.
- In addition, Norwegian interior designers have access to some of the best education and training in the world.
Entry-level Salary: Approximately NOK 470,286 per year.
Experienced Salary: Can rise to NOK 799,684 annually in senior roles.
Top 3 Companies
- Snohetta
- ACR Villa Skovly
- Florentz Design
Quick Read: Best countries in Europe to Live and Work for Indians in 2026
5. Denmark
Denmark stands out as one of the highest-paying countries for interior designers due to its globally admired Scandinavian design approach and strong emphasis on functionality and sustainability. The country’s design industry is closely linked with architecture, urban planning, and premium residential and commercial projects.
- Interior designers in Denmark earn competitive pay, with experienced professionals commanding high salaries driven by demand for minimalist, functional, and sustainable interiors.
- Danish firms work on international projects, giving designers exposure to global clients, advanced design tools, and long-term career growth opportunities.
Entry-level Salary: Starts at about DKK 288,100 per year
Experienced Salary: Senior designers earn up to DKK 562,200 annually
Top 3 Companies
- COBE
- Arrow Architects
- Wonderland Creative Agency
6. Australia
Australia is one of the highest paying countries for interior designers. There are many reasons why interior designers in Australia are paid so well.
- The country’s robust economy, thriving real estate market, and growing focus on sustainable design have driven demand for skilled interior designers.
- Australia’s urban hubs like Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane are particularly popular, as they are home to numerous luxury residential and commercial projects.
- Additionally, Australians place great importance on creating stylish, functional living spaces that incorporate natural elements, reflecting the country’s unique landscape and climate.
Entry-level Salary: Around AUD 75,000 per year
Experienced Salary: Can go up to AUD 105,000 annually
Top 3 Companies
- Carr
- Bates Smart
- Hassell
Check Out: How To Get a Job in Australia From India
7. Canada
Canada is one of the best countries for interior designer jobs. Immigration friendly policies, multicultural society, robust employment, etc, there are many reasons to want to work as an interior designer in Canada.
- The benefits of working in Canada as an interior designer include a lot more experience. The cost of living is also relatively low when compared to other developed countries, and there are plenty of opportunities to find work.
- So if you're looking for a high-paying job in a developed country with a low cost of living, Canada is definitely worth considering.
Entry-level Salary: Starts at approximately CAD 48,750 per year
Experienced Salary: Senior professionals earn up to CAD 80,002 annually
Top 3 Companies
- Bujou Studios
- CKDESIGN Licensed Interior Design
- Cutler
Explore: 10 Major Benefits of Working in Canada
8. Germany
Germany is one of the countries with a high demand for interior designers in the world. What makes Germany a top contender for skilled interior designers? The reasons include:
- Germany, as one of Europe’s largest economies, boasts a thriving construction and real estate sector, along with a strong emphasis on precision, functionality and modern aesthetics in design.
- Cities like Berlin, Munich and Hamburg are hotspots for creative interior design professionals, offering projects in luxury residential, commercial and cultural spaces
- Moreover, Germany's commitment to sustainable and energy-efficient designs aligned with global trends, making it an attractive destination for interior designers specialising in green building practices
Entry-level Salary: Starts at about EUR 24,630 per year
Experienced Salary: Can rise to EUR 50,000 annually with long-term experience
Top 3 Companies
- HILLWIRED
- Render Vision
- Ziegert EverEstate GmbH
Also Read: How To Get Job in Germany From India in 10 Simple Steps
9. Netherlands
The Netherlands stands out as a strong destination for interior designers for its reputation for innovative, sustainable, and detail-driven design. With a well-developed real estate sector and a high demand for modern residential and commercial interiors, designers here are valued for both creativity and technical precision.
- Interior designers in the Netherlands earn solid salaries that grow steadily with experience, especially in urban hubs like Amsterdam and Rotterdam, where design-led projects are common.
- Dutch firms emphasize sustainability, functionality, and work-life balance, allowing designers to work on diverse, high-quality projects while maintaining long-term career stability.
Entry-level Salary: Approximately EUR 31,508 per year
Experienced Salary: Senior designers earn around EUR 43,488 annually
Top 3 Companies
- Storm Architects
- The Art of Living
- VERO
10. New Zealand
New Zealand is one of the top best countries for interior design jobs. Interior designers in New Zealand are in high demand due to the strong economy and growing tourism industry.
- The top 10% of interior designers (earners) have their numbers as NZD 70,000 or more per year.
- There are many opportunities for interior designers in New Zealand, especially in the major cities of Auckland and Wellington.
Entry-level Salary: Around NZD 46,518 per year
Experienced Salary: Can reach NZD 71,221 annually with experience
Top 3 Companies
- Studio DB
- Canterbury Office Furniture
- Chambers Design
Must Read: How to Get a Job Abroad From India
In-Demand Skills and Software Employers Expect from Interior Designers
Below are the core skills and software tools employers actively seek in interior designers across global markets.
|
Category |
Details |
|
Design & Creativity |
Space planning, concept development, colour theory, and material selection |
|
Technical Skills |
Construction drawings, lighting layouts, furniture detailing, and building codes |
|
Project Management |
Budget planning, timeline coordination, vendor management |
|
Client Communication |
Presentation skills, design storytelling, and requirement analysis |
|
Sustainability Skills |
Eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient design, and green building awareness |
|
CAD Software |
AutoCAD, DraftSight |
|
3D Modelling Tools |
SketchUp, 3ds Max, Rhino |
|
Rendering Software |
V-Ray, Lumion, Enscape |
|
BIM Tools |
Revit, ArchiCAD |
|
Graphic & Presentation Tools |
Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign |
Check Out: Benefits of Working Abroad
How to Build an Interior Design Portfolio for International Jobs
A strong international portfolio shows more than design skills; it proves adaptability, technical knowledge, and global awareness. Employers overseas look for clear project thinking, professional presentation, and real-world problem-solving. Here is how to structure your portfolio to meet international expectations.
- Showcase diverse project types: Include residential, commercial, hospitality, or sustainable design projects to reflect versatility across global markets.
- Highlight concept-to-execution process: Add mood boards, layouts, material choices, and final visuals to demonstrate your complete design workflow.
- Use internationally accepted formats: Present your work in a clean digital PDF and an online portfolio website with easy navigation and clear captions.
- Focus on technical accuracy: Include floor plans, 3D renders, lighting plans, and software details to meet professional standards abroad.
- Tailor projects to target countries: Emphasise styles, regulations, or sustainability practices relevant to the country you’re applying to.
- Include measurable project impact: Mention space optimisation, budget efficiency, client goals, or sustainability outcomes where possible.
Interior Designers, This is the Right Time to Fly Abroad!
The ten countries on this list offer some of the best salaries in the world for interior designers, so if you are looking to make a move, these are definitely places to consider. With such high salaries on offer, there is no doubt that these countries are some of the best places to work as an interior designer.
That being said, it is understandable that the immigration process can as well be a challenging task for creative people who have been completely invested in sculpting the best master piece for the world to adore. It is highly recommended to hire a trusted immigration expert like GetGIS who could be your constant guide throughout the successful visa confirmation.
Also Read:
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which country offers the best opportunities for interior designers?
Which is the most lucrative type of interior design job?
What are the best career paths in interior design?
Which city in the USA do interior designers earn the most?
Which are the highest paying roles in interior design?
- Senior Interior Designer
- Interior Decorator
- Space Planner
- Commercial Interior Designer
- Residential Designer
- Design Studio Consultant
Is a degree required for interior designer jobs abroad?
Do interior designers get PR easily?