What is an Architect average salary in the UK?

In the UK, an architects average salary can vary widely depending on factors such as experience, location, the size of the employer, and the sector in which they work (private or public). You also need to factor in the longer than usual training time so an average salary that may take 7 to 10 years to achieve along with costly further educational and professional fees is something to consider.

However, here’s an overview based on recent data (to April 2023):

1. Trainee Architects
Part 1 Qualified Architects (those who have completed their bachelor’s degree):
Starting Salary: Approximately £18,000 to £22,000 per year.

2. Part 2 Qualified Architects
(those who have completed a master’s degree but not yet qualified as an architect):
Starting Salary: Typically ranges from £24,000 to £30,000 per year.
After a few years of experience, this can rise to between £30,000 and £40,000.

3. Newly Qualified Architects (Part 3)
After passing Part 3, architects can register with the Architects Registration Board (ARB):
Starting Salary: Generally between £32,000 and £40,000 per year.
Salaries can quickly rise to between £40,000 and £50,000 with more responsibility and experience.

4. Experienced Architects
Salary Range: From £40,000 to over £50,000.
Architects with substantial experience or those in senior positions, such as associate or partner, can earn between £45,000 and £70,000, or more.

5. Specialist and Senior Roles
Director or Partner Positions: These roles can have salaries that range widely from about £60,000 to £100,000+, depending on the firm’s size and profitability.

6. Freelance and Consultant Rates
Freelance architects can earn between £50 to £100 per hour based on their reputation, expertise, and the demand for their skills.

7. Regional Variations
Salaries in London and the Southeast tend to be higher than in other parts of the UK. For instance, a qualified architect in London might earn between 10% and 15% more than their counterparts in the North of England or Scotland.

8. Other Benefits
Benefits such as bonuses, car allowances, health insurance, and pension contributions can be significant, particularly at senior levels. These benefits are typically in addition to the basic salary.
Source: Data has been compiled from the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and various job and recruitment sites which survey salaries annually across different sectors and levels of experience.

These figures are indicative and can vary significantly by practice and economic conditions. Architects’ salaries reflect the high level of skill and training required to enter the profession, with increments recognisable with each stage of professional accreditation.