Skip to content
SOC 2451 Business, media and public service professionals

Architects Salary

Median salary £21,761 per year (2020). Based on ONS ASHE data.

About this role

Architects design buildings and spaces, creating functional, safe and aesthetically considered environments. They manage the design process from concept through planning permission to construction, ensuring compliance with building regulations and sustainability standards.

Key responsibilities

  • Developing designs from concept to detailed plans
  • Preparing planning applications and building regulation submissions
  • Producing construction drawings and specifications
  • Coordinating with engineers and contractors
  • Conducting site visits to monitor construction

Qualifications and entry routes

Requires the ARB/RIBA three-part qualification: Part 1 (3-year degree), Part 2 (2-year diploma/masters) and Part 3 (professional practice exam). Minimum 7 years training. ARB registration is mandatory.

Career outlook

Demand fluctuates with construction cycles. Sustainable design, retrofit and BIM expertise are increasingly valued.

Key skills

Architectural design CAD and BIM software Building regulations Project coordination Client communication

Common industries

  • Architecture practices
  • Property development
  • Local authority planning
  • Heritage conservation
  • Interior architecture

Data coverage

SOC code 2451
Data source ONS ASHE
Years available 2015–2020
Estimated jobs 13,000

Median Salary

£21,761

Mean Salary

£24,828

Jobs (000s)

13k

Data Years

6 years

Salary Range (2020)

Median: £21,761
P10: --P25: --Median: £22kP75: --P90: --

Estimated Career Progression

Based on salary percentile distribution for this occupation

Mid Level

£21,761

3-7 years

Salary Trend (2015-2020)

Nominal growth: +-6.3%Real growth: -14.0%

Gender Pay Comparison (2020)

Full-time vs All Employees (2020)

All Employees

£21,761

Full-time Only

£28,594

Full-time premium: +£6,833