Architect Salary in Sydney (2026)

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Architects in Sydney earn a median salary of $115,000 in 2026, with most advertised roles falling between $90,000 and $160,000. That sits 27% above Sydney's all-roles median of $90,726. Figures are based on 21 jobs advertised on Seek.com.au in Sydney in the last 30 days.

◆ Specialist role Lower listing volume — 14th percentile in Sydney
💰 Architect · Sydney
ADVERTISED RANGE
$90,000$160,000
Median: $115,000
Mid level $86,000 – $156,000
Overall $90k–$160k Mid $86k–$156k $83k $99k $115k $132k $148k $164k

Salary ranges are percentiles calculated from advertised employer bands on Seek.com.au. Figures represent what employers publicly advertise and may differ from actual compensation. Sample size is small — treat figures as indicative.

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Bottom 10%  $90,000 Median  $115,000 $160,000  Top 10%

Understanding the Sydney Market

Architect salaries in Sydney sit at $115,000, which is 27% above the city's all-roles median. With only 21 listings and no prior month data available, treat these figures as directional. The 61% spread from $86k to $156k reflects the genuine range across graduate architects (lower end) and senior project architects on large commercial or residential developments (upper end). Project Managers in Sydney earn $160,000, which is the typical career trajectory for architects who move into delivery management.

Take Home Pay (based on median $115,000)

Weekly (net)
~$1,632
Monthly (net)
~$7,072
Annual (net)
~$84,858
Total package (incl. 2025-26 super at 11.5%) $128,225

Take-home calculated using 2025-26 ATO tax rates, no HECS debt, full Australian residency. Total package adds 11.5% superannuation to base salary. Adjust for your situation →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a good starting salary for a junior Architect in Sydney?
Entry-level Architects in Sydney typically earn $86,000 to $100,000 at the mid level based on 13 listings. The Architects Accreditation Council of Australia (AACA) registration is the primary credential that separates graduate-level pay from registered architect rates, and achieving it within the first three to five years of practice is the clearest path to the upper range.
Is $115,000 a good salary in Sydney?
Yes. At $115,000 and 27% above Sydney's all-roles median, this is a genuine market premium. Sydney's cost of living is high, but at this income level the basics are well covered. The caution: the sample size is small (21 listings), so this figure is directional rather than highly precise.
How much does a Senior Architect make in Sydney?
Senior Architects in Sydney with registered status and project leadership responsibility can earn $130,000 to $156,000. Moving into a Project Manager or Design Manager function in construction or development typically unlocks $160,000 and above, which is the standard career step for architects with strong delivery experience.

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