Architects are experts who organize, design, and supervise the building process. They keep an eye on the construction sites to make sure everything is going according to the architectural blueprints. The pay that architects receive depends on a number of different criteria. This covers things like location, job title, years of experience, tax, insurance, and legal fees. Often, due to unemployment in one’s country, there could be a need to seek professional development in another country. Thus, we have put up this article to let you know the top countries in the world that pay the highest salaries to architects in case you are thinking of pursuing your professional career in this field abroad. This list is based on the most recent information obtained from credible sources.
Having a global overview of architect salaries is tricky to get because of the many variables that go into the equation. You need to take into account the position, experience, size of the firm, location, and relationship between earnings and living costs. There are also tax, insurance, and legal differences among different countries.
How to Become an Architect
Before we delve into the full list of countries with the highest salaries for architects, it is important that you know the route to take if you are considering being an architect.
The three main steps needed to become a licensed architect are as follows:
- Obtaining a National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB)-an accredited professional degree in architecture from a college or university.
- Internship: through a paid internship, gaining relevant experience and professional practice (s)
- Final Exam: Passing the Architect Registration Examination, a set of comprehensive tests (ARE).
Click here to read more about becoming an architect.
The Work Environment of an Architect
Although the majority of architects work full-time, there is some flexibility in the industry depending on your career goals. For instance, self-employed architects typically work for themselves because they desire a less rigid work schedule. In some instances, architects may have the option to work from their home office or own a design studio.
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Job Prospect For Architecture
The Architecture industry is constantly growing. The invention of the computer and access to information has significantly changed the way architecture has been practiced over the past 100 years. Employment for architects is majorly dependent on the construction and building industry which slows and grows with economic development. This is one of the reasons professionals in the industry choose to move to countries with booming economies. Architects move to countries with a stable economy and high salary growth. With that, they are sure of career development as well.
Areas of Specialization in Architecture
Like in many other professional fields, there are different niches an architect can specialize in. The niche is numerous. Some of them include:
- Residential
- Industrial
- Sustainability
- Hospital design
- CAD/Rendering
- Some kind of engineering specialty
- Interiors
- Waterproofing
- Building envelope
- Masonry, etc.
Countries with the Highest Salaries for Architects
Below are some of the top countries with the highest-paid salaries for architects:
1. The United Arab Emirates (UAE)
UAE is one of the topmost countries with the highest salaries for architects with an annual salary of about $120 000. However, entry-level salary starts at $4 300 per month, while senior-level professionals earn around $7 687 monthly. The building and real estate sectors are expanding quickly in UAE nations including Dubai, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi, so, architects are in high demand in these countries.
In addition to the lucrative pay, UEA provides one of the best environments for architects to practice.
2. China
To work in China as an architect, you must apply for a work visa through the employment license route. It is important for you to have a bachelor’s degree in architecture and at least two years of postgraduate work experience. Your employer may not hire you directly, but you must go to the Bureau of Human Resources and Social Security to apply.
Hong Kong and Shanghai are the best cities for entry-level architects to start practicing in China. That does not mean that you may not be successful in cities like Wuhan, Chengdu, or Changsha. China is an active promoter of a green environment. Foreign architects with knowledge of green designs have better opportunities to thrive in the country.
The average salary for an architect in China is $94,000, making the country one of the best-paying countries in the world for architects.
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3. The United States of America
The annual salary of an architect in the USA is $80 490 with the highest paying states for architects being California, New Jersey, Delaware, Massachusetts, Sacramento, Atlanta, and Alaska. The increased rate of energy costs and concerns about the environment have caused a rise in demand for architects with knowledge of green design.
4. Switzerland
This country is among the topmost countries in the world with the highest salaries for architects.
Switzerland is one of the world’s wealthiest and most industrialized economies. The average salary for an architect in the country is $78 000 per annum. Thus, Swiss architects’ salaries are among the highest in the world.
Architecture in Switzerland showcases a range of innovative projects with diverse materials and unconventional forms employed in their construction. It is very easy to see all major styles of building in Switzerland, ranging from Roman, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, Modern, and Post-modern architecture.
5. Norway
Norway is one of the best places for young architects to find jobs. The demand for skilled professionals in the country is high. Architects are highly favored in this country because it has a very low level of unemployment, with high demand for housing. The economy is very stable and workers are paid handsomely.
The average salary for architects in Norway is $72 000, making the country of the best-paying countries in the world for architects.
6. Singapore
An architect in Singapore has an average yearly pay of $70 000. Singapore is particular about green architecture due to its humid climate.
7. Australia
In Australia, architects typically make about $57 000 per year. However, the is one of the few countries that do not recognize major architectural diplomas from other countries. Architectural practice in Australia is regulated based on the standards of each state.
Australia has good job opportunities for architects. It is one of the developed countries which offer good salaries and high-quality life.
8. The United kingdom
In the United Kingdom, the average salary for architects is $60,000. Your location and expertise could influence whether you make more or less money in the UK. More so, in the center of the United Kingdom, London is one of the best spots for architects to pitch their tents.
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9. Japan
The average yearly income for architects in Japan is $57 000. A first-class architect with a license from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism carries out business such as design supervision.
10. Canada
Canada is one of the top countries with the highest salaries for architects. With a high standard of living, the Canadian economy is one of the most stable in the world. The most paying cities for architects in Canada are Toronto, Calgary, and Edmonton, where the average compensation is $60,000.
If you do not have a license and are not a full member of the regulatory body in the province or territory where you intend to work, you are not allowed to practice in Canada. The requirement to obtain a license prior to employment does not apply if your company is licensed.
Conclusion
Architecture is continuously changing and many specialists leave their countries in some instances in search of a greener pasture. So, if you’re thinking of practicing architecture abroad, we strongly suggest that you read this essay where you’ll find the best countries in the globe that have the highest pay for architects.
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