Tax Guide for Architects (2025)
Architects earn a median salary of $93,310. Self-employed architects and firm owners have broad business deductions, while all architects carry continuing education and licensing costs. The typical salary of $93,310 results in an estimated $74,195 take-home pay after federal income tax and FICA.
Quick Tax Snapshot
Gross Salary
$93,310
Median for architects
Federal Income Tax
$11,977
Single filer, standard deduction
FICA Taxes
$7,138
Social Security + Medicare
Estimated Take-Home
$74,195
After federal tax + FICA
Key Tax Deductions for Architects
Design software subscriptions (AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp)
Continuing education and AIA conferences
Professional license renewal and exam fees
Home office or studio space deduction (self-employed)
Professional liability (E&O) insurance
What to know at this income level
At $80,000 to $130,000 you are solidly in the 22% bracket, with some high-end earners touching the 24% bracket at $103,350 taxable income (about $119,000 gross). FICA remains a significant tax — at $100,000, you pay $7,650 in Social Security and Medicare combined. This is the income range where maximizing tax-advantaged accounts, Health Savings Accounts, and the Child Tax Credit have the most impact on your overall tax bill.
Max out tax-advantaged accounts
Between 401(k) ($23,500), IRA ($7,000), and HSA ($4,300 individual / $8,550 family), you can shelter up to $35,000+ from federal income tax. At the 22% bracket, that is over $7,700 in annual tax savings. Prioritize the 401(k) match first, then HSA, then IRA, then additional 401(k). Use calculator →
Health Savings Account (HSA)
If you have a high-deductible health plan, the HSA is the most tax-efficient account available — contributions are pre-tax, growth is tax-free, and withdrawals for medical expenses are tax-free. The 2025 limit is $4,300 (individual) or $8,550 (family). Unlike FSAs, HSA funds roll over indefinitely. Use calculator →
Child Tax Credit
Each qualifying child under 17 gives you a $2,200 credit for 2025 and 2026 (OBBBA raised it from $2,000, made permanent) that directly reduces your tax bill. With two children, that is $4,400 off your federal tax. The credit starts phasing out at $200,000 (single) or $400,000 (MFJ), so you receive the full amount at this income level. Use calculator →
Typical roles at this level: Experienced professionals, mid-career engineers and developers, accountants, registered nurses, project managers, federal employees at GS-11 to GS-13, and small business owners.
Frequently asked questions
What tax deductions can self-employed architects claim?
Self-employed architects can deduct design software, computer hardware, office or studio rent, professional liability insurance, CE courses, AIA dues, license fees, printing and plotting costs, travel to client sites, and marketing expenses on Schedule C. Large equipment purchases like high-end workstations can be fully expensed under Section 179. W-2 employed architects cannot deduct these expenses federally but should negotiate employer reimbursement.
How does the QBI deduction apply to architects?
Architecture is generally not classified as a Specified Service Trade or Business (SSTB), which means architect business owners can claim the full 20% QBI deduction regardless of income level, subject to W-2 wage and property basis limitations at higher incomes. This is a significant advantage over professionals in SSTB fields like consulting or law, where the deduction phases out above $197,300 (single) in 2025.
What retirement strategies work for architects?
Self-employed architects should consider a Solo 401(k) ($70,000 max contribution in 2025) or SEP-IRA (25% of net self-employment income). Firm-employed architects should max out their employer 401(k) match and contribute to a Roth IRA if eligible. At $93,310 income, maximizing retirement contributions can meaningfully reduce your marginal tax rate while building long-term wealth.
What is the best order to fund retirement accounts?
The generally recommended order is: (1) 401(k) up to employer match, (2) HSA if eligible, (3) Roth IRA if income-eligible, (4) 401(k) up to the $23,500 limit, (5) taxable brokerage. The HSA ranks high because it offers triple tax benefits — pre-tax contribution, tax-free growth, and tax-free withdrawal for medical expenses.
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Federal Income Tax Calculator →Best states for architects →
As a architects, your state choice can save you thousands. Compare all 50 states at your $93,310 income.