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how much does an interior designer cost Have you ever walked into a perfectly designed living room and wondered, “How much would it cost to have my home look like this?” You’re not alone. Hiring an interior designer is one of the best investments you can make to transform your space — but understanding the cost of interior design services can feel confusing at first.
In 2025, the cost of hiring an interior designer varies widely based on your location, project size, experience level of the designer, and the type of service you choose. Whether you’re planning a full home makeover, designing a single room, or just need expert advice on layout and décor, knowing what to expect financially helps you make smart, confident decisions.
In this detailed guide, we’ll break down how much an interior designer costs, including hourly rates, flat fees, design packages, and per-room pricing. You’ll also discover what factors influence the total cost — such as project scope, material choices, designer reputation, and even online design options.
By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of what fits your budget and how to get the most out of your investment. So, let’s explore the real cost of bringing your dream home to life with professional interior design expertise.
The average cost of an interior designer in 2025 depends on several factors — including your project’s size, location, and the designer’s expertise. However, to give you a general idea, most homeowners in the U.S. can expect to spend between $2,000 and $12,000 for professional interior design services.
For smaller projects like a single room makeover, interior designer fees might range from $500 to $3,000, while full-house designs can easily exceed $15,000 to $30,000, depending on customization and materials.
On average, interior designers charge in one of three main ways:
It’s important to note that pricing can vary significantly based on region. For example, hiring an interior designer in New York or Los Angeles will typically cost more than in smaller cities or suburban areas. Similarly, experienced designers with an established portfolio or high-end clientele may charge premium rates.
While these numbers might seem high, hiring a designer often saves money in the long run. They prevent costly mistakes, maximize your space, and increase your home’s resale value — making it a smart investment rather than an expense.

reatly, not just because of location, but also due to the project’s scale, design complexity, and your personal preferences. Here are the key factors that influence interior design pricing in 2025:
A small project — like refreshing a bedroom or office — requires less time and fewer materials than a full home redesign. The larger the space, the more hours and resources your designer will dedicate, which naturally increases the total cost.
Highly experienced or well-known designers charge more for their expertise, vision, and established network of contractors and suppliers. A top-tier interior designer with a strong portfolio may charge up to $250 per hour or more, while newer designers might offer more budget-friendly rates.
Where you live plays a huge role in pricing. Major metropolitan areas like New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, or Miami often have higher design fees compared to smaller towns or rural areas due to cost of living and demand.
Some clients need only consultation services, while others hire designers for full-service projects — including layout planning, furniture sourcing, material selection, and on-site supervision. The more comprehensive the service, the higher the overall cost.
If you’re opting for luxury furniture, custom cabinetry, or high-end finishes, your total project cost will rise. On the other hand, if your designer sources budget-friendly décor or reuses existing items, you can significantly reduce expenses.
Tight deadlines, structural modifications, or complex architectural designs can increase costs. Designers may charge premium rates for expedited or challenging projects that require additional coordination with contractors or engineers.
Each of these factors contributes to the final cost — making it essential to discuss your goals, budget, and expectations early with your designer. This ensures transparency and helps create a project plan that fits both your vision and financial comfort.

The cost of an interior designer can differ widely depending on the type of service you need. Some homeowners simply want design advice or mood boards, while others prefer complete project management from start to finish. Understanding the various service models helps you choose the right option for your goals and budget.
If you’re confident about managing your own project but want a professional opinion, many designers offer one-time consultation sessions. These sessions usually cost between $100 and $500, lasting 1–2 hours. You’ll get expert advice on color palettes, furniture layout, lighting, or space planning — perfect for DIY decorators who need a professional touch.
In this package, the designer creates a customized design plan that includes floor layouts, 3D renderings, and style recommendations, but you handle the purchasing and installation. The cost typically ranges from $1,000 to $3,000 per room, depending on the complexity and level of detail.
For homeowners who want everything handled by professionals, full-service interior design covers every stage — from concept to completion. The designer sources materials, manages vendors, supervises construction, and installs décor. Prices can range from $5,000 to $50,000+, depending on the project’s scale, finishes, and location.
In 2025, online interior design has become a budget-friendly alternative to in-person services. Platforms like Havenly, Decorilla, and Modsy offer virtual consultations and 3D room designs for $100 to $1,500 per room. This option is ideal for smaller budgets or tech-savvy clients who prefer digital collaboration.
For office spaces, restaurants, or retail stores, commercial interior designers charge higher fees due to technical requirements and space optimization needs. Costs typically start at $10 to $25 per square foot, depending on design complexity and branding requirements.
Each service type comes with different levels of involvement, so the best approach depends on your goals. If you want a hands-off experience, go for full-service design. But if you enjoy decorating and just need direction, an online or consultation-based service might suit you best.

One of the biggest questions homeowners have when hiring a designer is, “How do interior designers charge for their services?” The answer depends on the designer’s business model and the type of project you’re working on. In general, there are three main pricing structures used across the interior design industry — hourly rates, flat fees, and percentage-based pricing. Let’s break down how each works and which might fit your needs best.
Many interior designers prefer to charge an hourly rate, especially for smaller or short-term projects. The national average in 2025 is between $50 and $250 per hour, depending on the designer’s experience and location.
This model is ideal when you need help with specific design tasks like layout planning, color consultation, or furniture selection. However, it’s important to establish clear time estimates to avoid unexpected costs. Most designers will provide an estimated total number of hours before starting the project.
A flat fee model offers simplicity and transparency. Instead of paying by the hour, you agree on one total price for the project. This pricing type is often used for full-room or full-home design services, and it typically ranges from $1,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on the project’s complexity.
Flat fees are great for clients who want to know exactly what they’ll spend upfront — with no surprises. Designers usually base their quotes on the time, resources, and subcontractors they expect to use.
For large-scale renovations or luxury interiors, designers may charge a percentage of the total project cost — usually between 10% and 25%. For example, if your renovation costs $50,000, the designer’s fee could be $5,000–$12,500.
This model aligns the designer’s fee with the scope and budget of your project. It’s most common when the designer manages contractors, custom furnishings, and overall project execution.
Some designers use a cost-plus model, where they purchase materials, furniture, or décor items at wholesale prices and then add a markup (typically 10–30%) as their fee. This method can sometimes save you money, as designers often have access to exclusive trade discounts unavailable to the public.
Each pricing structure has its advantages. Hourly rates work well for small tasks, flat fees for predictable budgets, and percentage-based pricing for complex renovations. Discussing these models in advance ensures you find the right fit for your timeline and financial goals.
When planning your home design project, it’s often easier to estimate costs room by room. Many designers and clients prefer this approach because it provides a clear picture of how much each space will cost to design — and helps manage budgets efficiently.
The cost of an interior designer per room in 2025 depends on the room’s size, style preferences, and the level of detail required. Below is a general breakdown of average pricing by room type in the U.S.:
Designing a living room usually ranges from $2,000 to $8,000, depending on furniture quality, layout complexity, and design style. Since it’s a main gathering area, designers often spend extra time ensuring a perfect balance of comfort, aesthetics, and flow.
Expect to pay around $1,500 to $5,000 for a bedroom redesign. The price varies based on whether you’re updating décor or doing a full transformation with custom wardrobes, lighting, and wall treatments.
Kitchens are among the most expensive rooms to design due to cabinetry, appliances, and lighting. A professional kitchen interior designer may charge between $5,000 and $25,000, especially for luxury or large kitchens requiring detailed space planning.
Bathroom designs typically cost between $2,000 and $10,000, depending on the size and material quality. High-end finishes like marble, custom vanities, or designer fixtures can quickly raise the price.
A dining room interior design project ranges from $1,500 to $6,000. This includes furniture selection, lighting design, color palette coordination, and décor styling to create an inviting ambiance.
Home offices are increasingly popular, with design costs averaging $1,000 to $4,000. Factors like built-in shelves, ergonomic furniture, and soundproofing influence the total expense.
For full-house projects, costs can vary between $10,000 and $100,000+, depending on the home’s size, level of customization, and materials chosen. Designers may offer package deals for multi-room designs to help clients save.
When deciding your budget, remember that furniture, accessories, and décor can make up 40% to 60% of the total design cost. Setting clear priorities and communicating them early with your designer helps achieve the look you want — without overspending.

Another popular way to calculate how much an interior designer costs is by square footage. This method provides a transparent estimate based on the total area of your project — ideal for homeowners, real estate investors, or new constructions.
In 2025, the average interior design cost per square foot in the U.S. ranges from $5 to $20 for basic design consultations and layouts, and up to $50 or more per square foot for full-service or luxury interior design.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
For example:
Keep in mind that location plays a huge role. Interior design services in major cities like New York, Los Angeles, or London typically cost more than in smaller towns due to higher demand and living costs.
If you’re working within a strict budget, ask your designer for a hybrid pricing model — for example, using per-square-foot pricing for planning and hourly or fixed fees for styling. This approach offers flexibility while maintaining professional quality.
In today’s digital era, online interior design services have become one of the most affordable and convenient ways to decorate your home. These virtual design platforms allow clients to collaborate with professional designers remotely—eliminating travel costs and reducing overall fees.
The average cost of online interior design services ranges from $100 to $1,500 per room, depending on the platform, designer experience, and project complexity. Unlike traditional services, these packages often include mood boards, 3D renderings, shopping lists, and direct messaging with your designer.
Here’s a general overview:
Top online interior design companies like Havenly, Modsy (now rebranded as Modsy Pro), Decorilla, and Spacejoy have made professional design accessible for all budgets. These services are especially helpful for:
Another advantage of online services is transparent pricing—you know exactly what you’re paying for before starting. Plus, most platforms offer discounted furniture pricing through brand partnerships, helping you save even more on décor items.
If you’re new to interior design or hesitant to commit to a large budget, online services can be a fantastic starting point. They allow you to explore design possibilities, understand your aesthetic preferences, and visualize your dream home before making bigger investments.
The hourly rate for interior designers is one of the most common and flexible pricing methods in the industry. It allows clients to pay only for the time spent on their project—perfect for small design consultations, room makeovers, or clients who want ongoing guidance rather than full-service design.
In 2025, the average hourly cost of an interior designer in the U.S. ranges from $50 to $250 per hour, depending on the designer’s experience, location, and the project’s complexity. Junior or emerging designers may charge between $50–$100/hour, while senior designers or luxury specialists can command $200–$500/hour for high-end projects.
When you hire an interior designer by the hour, you’re billed for all the time they spend on your project, which includes:
To maintain transparency, most designers track their hours using time logs and provide weekly or biweekly updates to clients.
Pros:
Cons:
If you’re unsure about your total budget or simply need professional input without committing to a large flat fee, the hourly rate option is ideal. It gives you access to expert insight and flexibility to control your design expenses.
Many homeowners prefer the flat fee pricing model when hiring interior designers because it provides a clear and predictable cost upfront. This approach is ideal for clients who want to know the total expense before the project begins — avoiding surprises or fluctuating bills.
In 2025, the average flat fee for interior design services typically ranges from $1,000 to $10,000 per project, depending on the home’s size, the project’s complexity, and the designer’s experience. For full-house designs, flat fees can go beyond $20,000, especially for luxury interiors or new constructions.
With this model, the designer evaluates your project’s scope — such as the number of rooms, design style, required drawings, and material sourcing — and provides a fixed rate covering all essential services. These may include:
Once the flat fee is agreed upon, payments are usually divided into milestones (for example, 50% upfront and 50% after project completion).
However, it’s important to read the contract carefully — some services like structural modifications, architectural drawings, or multiple design revisions might come at an additional cost.
| Project Type | Average Flat Fee | Example |
| Single Room Redesign | $1,000 – $3,000 | Living room or bedroom |
| Kitchen/Bath Remodel | $2,000 – $8,000 | Includes custom cabinetry & fixtures |
| Full Home Design | $8,000 – $20,000+ | Comprehensive design & furnishing |
Flat fee pricing offers peace of mind for clients who value predictability. It simplifies the design process, allowing you to focus on creativity and results rather than worrying about the clock.
Another common pricing structure used by professionals in the industry is percentage-based interior design fees. This model is especially popular for large-scale projects, luxury home designs, or commercial interior design where the total budget is substantial.
In this method, the designer charges a percentage of the total project cost — typically ranging between 10% and 25%. This percentage is calculated on the total amount spent on furniture, materials, labor, and other related expenses.
Let’s say your total project budget is $50,000. If the designer charges 15%, their total fee would be $7,500. The more extensive and complex the project, the higher the designer’s percentage is likely to be.
This pricing approach ensures that the designer’s compensation aligns directly with the project’s scale and quality. The more ambitious or premium the design, the higher the total fee — which often motivates designers to deliver exceptional results.
| Project Type | Typical Percentage | Description |
| Residential Design | 10% – 20% | Standard home projects and renovations |
| Commercial Design | 12% – 25% | Offices, restaurants, or retail interiors |
| Luxury Homes | 20% – 30% | High-end custom designs and premium finishes |
For clients investing in a complete renovation or new build, this pricing structure provides comprehensive design support from concept to completion. It allows for greater creative freedom while ensuring quality results that align with the project’s overall budget and aesthetic goals.
In short, percentage-based fees are perfect for homeowners who want a turnkey solution — where the designer manages everything seamlessly while maintaining full design integrity.
Before starting any project, most designers offer a consultation session — an essential first step in the design process. During this meeting, the designer evaluates your space, discusses your goals, and provides initial ideas or recommendations. The interior design consultation fee varies widely, depending on the designer’s expertise and location.
In 2025, consultation fees typically range from $100 to $500 per hour for in-person sessions, while virtual consultations through video calls may cost $75 to $300 per hour. Some designers even offer a flat consultation rate, averaging $250–$800, which covers an on-site visit and a follow-up report with design suggestions.
| Type of Consultation | Average Cost | Description |
| Virtual (Online) | $75 – $300 | Conducted over Zoom or video calls; great for small design help. |
| In-Person (Local) | $100 – $500 | Includes a home visit, discussion, and quick design advice. |
| Extended Consultation | $500 – $800 | Covers larger spaces, mood boards, and a follow-up plan. |
For homeowners on a budget, a design consultation can be one of the smartest investments. Even if you don’t proceed with full-service design, you’ll walk away with actionable insights, color schemes, and layout strategies tailored to your space.
Many homeowners find that paying for a one-time consultation actually saves money long-term — preventing costly furniture mistakes or mismatched designs that would require later corrections.
For homeowners who want a complete transformation — from concept to completion — full-service interior design is the ultimate option. It includes every stage of the design process: consultations, planning, sourcing, purchasing, project management, and final installation. However, this level of service naturally comes with a higher cost.
In 2025, full-service interior design costs typically range from $8,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the home’s size, location, and level of luxury. On average, most homeowners in the U.S. spend between $15,000 and $40,000 for an entire home design.
| Property Type | Average Cost | Details |
| Small Apartment (1–2 rooms) | $8,000 – $15,000 | Compact spaces with custom layouts. |
| Mid-Size Home (3–4 rooms) | $15,000 – $30,000 | Includes kitchen, living room, and bedrooms. |
| Large Luxury Home | $40,000 – $100,000+ | Complete design with premium materials and finishes. |
Full-service design is best for busy professionals or homeowners who prefer a hands-off approach. The designer handles everything — ensuring your project stays on schedule, within budget, and in line with your vision.
Although the investment might seem high, the results are often worth every dollar. Full-service design ensures a cohesive, functional, and stylish living space that reflects your personality while increasing your home’s long-term value.
Understanding how much an interior designer costs helps you make confident, budget-conscious decisions for your home project. Whether you’re redesigning a single room or your entire house, there’s a pricing model that fits your goals and budget.
If you want quick expert advice, an hourly or consultation fee might be perfect. For those seeking predictable costs, flat-fee pricing offers clarity and peace of mind. And if you’re aiming for a complete home transformation, full-service design ensures every detail is executed flawlessly — from concept to final reveal.
Interior design is more than just choosing colors or furniture — it’s about creating a space that enhances your lifestyle, comfort, and happiness. A skilled designer doesn’t just decorate your home; they craft an environment that feels truly you.
So before you dive into your next renovation or redesign, take time to explore your options, understand the cost of hiring an interior designer, and choose the service level that aligns with your dream home vision.
With the right guidance, your space won’t just look beautiful — it’ll live beautifully.
The average hourly rate for interior designers in 2025 ranges from $50 to $250 per hour. Junior designers may charge closer to $75/hour, while highly experienced or luxury designers can cost up to $500/hour for specialized projects.
Hiring an interior designer for a single room can cost between $500 and $3,000, depending on the room’s size, complexity, and designer expertise. Online design services may offer affordable packages starting around $100 to $800 per room.
Yes, most designers charge a consultation fee ranging from $100 to $500 per session. Some apply this fee toward your total project cost if you proceed with their full design services.
In flat-fee pricing, you pay one total amount for the entire project, typically $1,000–$10,000. Hourly pricing, however, is based on the time the designer spends working on your project, which is ideal for short-term or flexible designs.
Absolutely! Online interior design services are affordable, convenient, and perfect for small or mid-sized projects. Prices usually range from $100 to $1,500 per room, and you still get access to mood boards, 3D renderings, and expert guidance.
A full-service interior design project can range from $8,000 to $100,000+, depending on the size and luxury level of the space. This includes everything from concept creation to final installation and styling.
Many designers apply a markup of 10% to 30% on furniture, materials, and décor items they source for you. This covers procurement time, coordination, and professional expertise in finding high-quality, suitable pieces.
Yes, many designers offer design-only or consultation services. You can hire them for 1–2 hours to get advice on layout, color schemes, or décor ideas without committing to a full design project.
9. Is hiring an interior designer worth the cost?
Yes! While hiring an interior designer is an investment, it can actually save money long-term. Designers help you avoid costly mistakes, make smarter furniture purchases, and increase your property’s resale value through thoughtful design.
To find an affordable designer, start by browsing local design directories, online platforms like Houzz or Havenly, and social media portfolios. Compare rates, reviews, and past work. You can also request a virtual consultation to save travel costs and get expert input at a lower rate.
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