How much does an architect earn?
Architects design and deliver buildings and urban projects: they develop design concepts, prepare permit and construction documents, manage HOAI service phases and accompany projects from idea to construction supervision – in architecture practices, for general planners, contractors, housing companies, municipalities or as freelancers. Entry is typically via a degree in architecture (bachelor/master), often with internships; chamber registration requires professional practice. Gross pay depends on region, collective agreements or fee schedules (HOAI), office size, chamber admission and project responsibility. As a guide, practising architects in Germany in 2026 often earn about €4,200–€5,200 gross per month; in internships, student jobs or entry phases around €1,100–€1,480 is typical.
Salary by region (gross/month)
Guide figures as of 2026. The training column refers to internships, student jobs, dual study or entry phases in architecture; qualified means practising architects. Actual pay depends on collective agreements (e.g. TVöD), HOAI/fees, office size, region, chamber registration, project responsibility and experience and is not a guarantee.
Further training options
Job and everyday work
An architect links design and delivery: buildings take shape at the computer and on site, coordination with clients, specialist planners and authorities shapes the day, and projects range from housing and commercial buildings to conversion, refurbishment and public or urban schemes – with high demands on design, engineering, standards and sustainability.
- Prepare and continuously update design, permit and construction documents for building construction, conversion or refurbishment.
- Develop spatial, material and façade concepts; calculate costs, areas and quantities.
- Coordinate with clients, structural engineers, building services, authorities and trades; support permits and fire safety.
- Use CAD, BIM and visualisation; carry out surveys and site visits.
- Manage tendering, awarding and construction supervision; secure build quality and schedules.
- Embed sustainability, accessibility and energy efficiency in designs; observe chamber and HOAI requirements.
