10 of the Best Cities in the USA to Move to if You Love Great Architecture (2024)

The United States is home to incredible-looking architecture, with most of its styles originating from Spain, Britain, and France. With that said, many of America’s bustling urban centers take notes from their own modern architectural styles and artists, such as Ludwig van der Rohe.

The Best Cities in the US for Architecture Lovers

An interstate move can be overwhelming, so be sure to estimate the cost of national moving solutions at 9kilo. Hiring a moving company can give you more time to explore the following US cities.

1. New Orleans, Louisiana

The buildings in the French Quarter of New Orleans are heavily inspired by French, Spanish, and Caribbean styles. The city's multicultural heritage is seen everywhere, from the Garden District’s Victorian-era mansions to the Creole townhouses with their iconic carriageways.

2. Boston, Massachusetts

With a nickname like “The Puritan City,” it’s easy to spot where Boston got its stunning building ideas from. The Puritan settlers are responsible for most of the Craftsman bungalows and Georgian Tudors, but the Trinity Church was made much later by Henry Hobson Richardson.

3. San Francisco, California

In San Francisco, you can find Victorian-style buildings, Queen Anne-style homes, and Gothic Revival cathedrals. You’ll also see thousands of custom homes, like the Twin Peaks Residence, which had a recent remodel that includes an updated interior and an expansive forested view.

4. Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C., has a unique style that’s rarely seen outside of the area. The U.S. Capitol and Jefferson Memorial took from Roman-style buildings, whereas the White House was built to resemble the Leinster House in Dublin. The Washington Monument has Egyptian influences.

5. Santa Fe, New Mexico

If you want to experience the Wild West in the modern day, visit Santa Fe. The reddish-brown brick dwellings and mud-brick style structures, prominent in the South circa 1850, are found throughout the city. So are the brick-capped rooflines prominent in the Spanish Revival.

6. Detroit, Michigan

Hundreds of incredible architects made Detroit’s downtown core and its skylines one of the most recognizable in the US. Detroit also has some of the best-preserved buildings country-wide. You’ll see Art Deco masterpieces, Italian Renaissance buildings, and post-modern skyscrapers.

7. Chicago, Illinois

Chicago is the birthplace of the “Chicago School” commercial building style, which used the popular steel-framed construction in unique ways. One of Chicago’s most famous sites, the Tribune Tower, is a neo-Gothic building inspired by the Taj Mahal and the Great Wall of China.

8. Charleston, South Carolina

Some neighborhoods in Charleston will make you feel like you stepped through a portal in time. Multiple streets are lined with colonial-style buildings, like the Old Exchange Building. The Georgian style is also popular, as shown at the Washington House and the Fireproof Building.

9. Palm Springs, California

If you’re a big fan of modernism, then Palm Springs is where you’ll want to live. This desert resort city is filled with a unique architectural style called “desert modernism.” These types of homes include large windows, overhanging roof planes, shared verandas, and outdoor pools.

10. New York City, New York

The United States' most visited metropolis, New York, contains some of the most impressive buildings and structures in the world. The Chrysler Building, Woolworth Building, Flatiron Building, Empire State Building, and the Ansonia Hotel are architectural marvels and must-sees.

In Conclusion…

Whether you’re a fan of historical styles or modern skyscrapers, the United States has it all. Every state, no matter how small, will have cities filled with innovative buildings that make living there a great experience. Any of these 10 cities would be a treat for architecture lovers.

By Liliana Alvarez

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10 of the Best Cities in the USA to Move to if You Love Great Architecture (2024)

FAQs

10 of the Best Cities in the USA to Move to if You Love Great Architecture? ›

New York City, NY

New York also has many architectural wonders, such as the Empire State Building and Central Park. With the biggest number of architectural firms, New York City is one of the top places for architecture grads. An architect's annual salary is $93,908 on average.

Which city in US is best for architecture? ›

New York City, NY

New York also has many architectural wonders, such as the Empire State Building and Central Park. With the biggest number of architectural firms, New York City is one of the top places for architecture grads. An architect's annual salary is $93,908 on average.

Where is it best to live as architect? ›

Additionally, a lot of these cities also offer some of the best education and job opportunities for architects.
  • 1 - San Francisco, California. What San Francisco is best known for? ...
  • 2 - New York City, NY. ...
  • 3 - Boston, Massachusetts. ...
  • 4 - Chicago, Illinois. ...
  • 5 - Atlanta, Georgia. ...
  • 6 - Seattle, Washington. ...
  • 7 - Dallas, Texas.

What city has the most beautiful architecture? ›

Rome. Although the Romans adopted aspects of ancient Greek architecture, Rome, Italy, still made our list of top architecture cities. The city has awesome architecture witnessed by the beauty of the Colosseum (pictured).

What cities would you like to visit for their architecture? ›

Below is a list of countries architects must visit to witness the aspiring architecture around the world once in their lifetime.
  • Barcelona. The city in the Barcelona province in Spain is situated a few 90 kilometers from the French Riviera borders. ...
  • Istanbul. ...
  • New York city. ...
  • Dubai. ...
  • Shanghai. ...
  • Athens. ...
  • Chicago. ...
  • Berlin.

What city pays architects most? ›

  • San Francisco, California. With an average annual salary of $97,319, San Francisco is the top paying city in the United States for architects. ...
  • New York City, NY. ...
  • Toronto, Canada. ...
  • Melbourne, Australia. ...
  • Seattle, Washington, USA. ...
  • London, UK. ...
  • Zurich, Switzerland. ...
  • Boston, Massachusetts.
Aug 22, 2021

Where is architect in high demand? ›

The highest paying states in the USA for architects include California, New Jersey, Delaware, Massachusetts, Sacramento, Atlanta and Alaska. Currently, over 110 000 architects are employed in the USA. The annual salary of an architect in the country is $80 490.

What state pays the most for architecture? ›

Best-Paying States for Architects

The states and districts that pay Architects the highest mean salary are District of Columbia ($114,540), Mississippi ($104,240), New York ($103,340), Massachusetts ($102,680), and California ($100,790).

Where do architects go for inspiration? ›

Architects seek to find inspiration from different sources. They may get it from their colleagues' innovative projects, old architecture, books, magazines, even from nature and travels. However, architects have a tight schedule, and they do not always have time to explore all these sources.

Which state has the best architecture? ›

Regions Of The USA With The Best Architecture
  • Washington D.C. You can't talk about the architecture of America without discussing the nation's capital. ...
  • New Orleans. ...
  • California. ...
  • New Mexico. ...
  • New York. ...
  • Chicago.
Aug 23, 2022

What city is famous for its architecture? ›

Chicago, US. Frank Lloyd Wright, Jeanne Gang, Frank Gehry: some of the most famous architects of the last century have contributed to Chicago's skyline.

What is the architectural capital of the United States? ›

Chicago, Architectural Capital of the United States.

Which country is no 1 by architecture? ›

Key takeaways
  • The field of architecture is undoubtedly fascinating and provides a wealth of opportunities for those who enjoy being creative.
  • The field of architecture is challenging and fiercely competitive. ...
  • The best countries to study architecture are China, England, France, Germany, Spain.
May 5, 2023

Where do architects spend most of their time? ›

Architects spend much of their time in offices, where they develop plans, meet with clients, and consult with engineers and other architects.

What is the architecture capital of the world? ›

Get ready for a year of architecture and design when Copenhagen takes the title as World Capital of Architecture.

What is the architectural capital of the world? ›

The city of Copenhagen has been officially designated as World Capital of Architecture for 2023 by the Director-General of UNESCO, Audrey Azoulay, on the recommendation of the General Assembly of the International Union of Architects (UIA).

What type of architect is highest paid? ›

11 highest-paying architecture jobs
  • Historic preservation architect.
  • Urban planner.
  • Landscape architect.
  • Retrofit architect.
  • Industrial architect.
  • Architectural project manager.
  • Architectural historian.
  • Commercial architect.
Mar 10, 2023

Can an architect be a millionaire? ›

Lord Norman Foster is the most prosperous architect in the world, with a net worth of $240 million. He founded his well-known architectural firm Foster + Partners back in 1967, and he is known for his sleek glass and steel structures.

Are architects in demand in USA? ›

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 2.7% employment growth for architects between 2021 and 2031. In that period, an estimated 3,300 jobs should open up. Architects use their skills in design, engineering, managing and coordinating to create aesthetically pleasing and safe buildings that serve a purpose.

What do most architects major in? ›

The following degrees are recognized by the Board as "related to architecture":
  • Architectural Design.
  • Architectural Engineering.
  • Architectural Studies.
  • Architectural Technology.
  • Building Science.
  • City and Regional Planning.
  • Civil Engineering.
  • Construction Engineering.

Is architecture a satisfying career? ›

Yes, architecture is a good career.

Architects report a higher-than-average level of satisfaction in their work. They also tend to report being happier in general than the average person, so architecture seems to be a good career for happiness.

What are the disadvantages of being an architect? ›

Cons of Being a Licensed Architect
  • Professional liability. ...
  • Commitment to education. ...
  • Hard work and long hours. ...
  • Sorting through competing design ideas. ...
  • Continuously changing architecture field.
Apr 13, 2023

Is architecture a good career in USA? ›

With training and experience, architects can make lucrative salaries compared to other professionals in the general workforce. The average salary for an architect is $96,580 per year . An architect's salary depends on their geographic area, employer and professional experience.

What states are easiest to become an architect in? ›

However, in some U.S. states, you can become an architect without a professional degree in architecture. For example, Hawaii, Colorado, and Washington don't require formal education in architecture. To work as an architect in these states, you must have intensive work experience and pass a licensing exam.

Do architects get to travel a lot? ›

Traveling is an important part of the foundational makeup of any architect. The act of being exposed to different cultures, climates, materials, and spatial solutions is an ongoing life adventure that typically feeds our creative process.

What does the life of an architect look like? ›

A typical day for an architect involves communicating, managing projects, researching, planning, designing and drafting. The work of an architect is both exciting and varied, and no two days are alike. On any given day, an architect may collaborate with colleagues and clients, sketch new ideas, and visit job sites.

Where do architects find clients? ›

7 Ways for Architects to Get More Clients
  • Develop a strong personal brand. ...
  • Invest in your online presence and be active on social media. ...
  • Attend industry and networking events. ...
  • Get involved in design awards and competitions. ...
  • Write articles or give talks about your work and architecture in general.
Nov 1, 2022

Who has the most beautiful architecture? ›

The world's most beautiful buildings have been uncovered in a new study, with London's St. Paul's Cathedral scooping the top spot. Research conducted by Roofing Megastore used the golden ratio — an ancient algebraic equation — to analyse 100 of the most famous buildings around the world.

What is the most famous architecture in the US? ›

List of "America's Favorites"
RankStructureStyle
1Empire State BuildingArt Deco
2The White HouseNeoclassical
3Washington National CathedralGothic Revival
4Jefferson MemorialNeoclassical
60 more rows

What are the 5 capitals of architecture? ›

5 types of classical capitals - tuscan, doric, ionic, corinthian and composite.

What US city has been called the birthplace of modern architecture? ›

Chicago is known as the birthplace of modern architecture.

Which culture has the best architecture? ›

Italy, Spain, UK, France, Gemany, Russia, the list goes on... ALL the European countries have superb, historical architecture second to none. Italy is amazing period.

Where is the oldest architecture in the US? ›

Cliff Palace Ancestral Puebloan Dwellings | Oldest Buildings In United States. Cliff Palace in the Ancestral Puebloan Dwellings is the first and a direct example of the pre-Columbian style in the United States.

What is American architecture called? ›

The architecture used by the first settlers in North America is traditionally known as Colonial architecture. (See also: American Colonial Art.) This early architecture was as diverse as the settlers themselves, who included Spanish, English, Scots-Irish, Dutch, German, French and Swedish.

What is the most common house style in America? ›

The Ranch House is America's Most Commonly Sold Home

Ranch-style housing is the most popular across 20 states. This American classic was built in such quantities in the mid-twentieth century that it prevails through sheer force. The ranch house offers space and, occupying just one floor, cradle-to-grave accessibility.

What do you call a person who does architecture? ›

/ˈɑkɪtɛkt/ Other forms: architects. A person who designs buildings is an architect. If you become an architect, you'll be responsible for drawing the blueprints, planning the work, and sometimes even overseeing the construction of a building.

Which country has best house design? ›

Incorporating them into how we style our homes helps us to either relive treasured memories or dream of new exciting adventures. 'It's easy to see why Japan's interior design came out top, as its principles align with how so many of us want our houses to be – light, airy and simple with no clutter.

What is the most well designed country in the world? ›

DESIGNBOOM announces WORLD DESIGN RANKINGS 2022

In a similar pattern to 2020 and 2021, china tops the 114-country-strong table again with the highest number of awards won.

What do female architects wear? ›

What is this? Both male and female architects wear blazers as part of their work outfits. Female architects wear them on top of a typical dress or pants to create a business casual look, while male architects can wear blazers with their dress pants or jeans and white shirts to have the same look.

Do architects work 7 days a week? ›

Architects work 40 hour weeks, often working extra hours and weekends to meet deadlines. Becoming an architect requires smarts, determination and strong creative instinct – and it also requires a degree.

What skills does an architect need? ›

You'll need:
  • design skills and knowledge.
  • knowledge of building and construction.
  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail.
  • thinking and reasoning skills.
  • customer service skills.
  • excellent verbal communication skills.
  • analytical thinking skills.
  • the ability to use your initiative.

Where do most architects live? ›

Architecture Average Salary in New York City

As the financial hub of the US and the world, New York City has one of the highest numbers of architecture firms, often run by prominent architects.

Who is father of architecture? ›

Frank Lloyd Wright, the Father of Architecture. Frank Lloyd Wright (Father of Architecture) was an American architect, designer, writer, and educator. Over a period of seventy years, he designed over one thousand structures.

What is the oldest architectural site in the world? ›

Göbekli Tepe. Göbekli Tepe is an archaeological site of a temple in Southeastern Turkey and has been dated back to 9500 - 8000 BCE. This date was discovered by carbon dating old tools found during excavations. This building is in fact the oldest structure on earth that we have found to date.

Which city has the oldest architecture in the world? ›

Suzhou, China (inhabited since 514 BC)

Where is the oldest architecture in the world? ›

Dating back to 3600 BC and 700 BC, the Megalithic Temples of Malta are considered to be the oldest free-standing structures on earth.

What states are best for architecture? ›

If you're an architecture lover, here are 10 cities you'll find particularly delightful.
  • Boston, Massachusetts. ...
  • Palm Springs, California. ...
  • New Orleans, Louisiana. ...
  • New York City, New York. ...
  • Detroit, Michigan. ...
  • Santa Fe, New Mexico. ...
  • Chicago, Illinois. ...
  • Charleston, South Carolina.
Feb 20, 2022

Where are architects in demand in the US? ›

The list of best-paying states also includes Alaska, Massachusetts, California, and New York. These top states also host many of the best-paying cities for architects. Locations like Phoenix, Boston, the Bay Area, and New York City are fast-growing areas that provide plentiful opportunities for architects.

Are architects in high demand in USA? ›

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 2.7% employment growth for architects between 2021 and 2031. In that period, an estimated 3,300 jobs should open up.

What states pay architects the most? ›

Here's How Much Architects Earn In Every State
RankState2017 Mean Annual Wage
1New York$109,520
2Massachusetts$103,920
3Texas$99,580
4Arizona$95,220
6 more rows
Mar 31, 2019

Which field is best for architecture? ›

11 highest-paying architecture jobs
  • Historic preservation architect.
  • Urban planner.
  • Landscape architect.
  • Retrofit architect.
  • Industrial architect.
  • Architectural project manager.
  • Architectural historian.
  • Commercial architect.
Mar 10, 2023

What is the best degree for architecture? ›

The following degrees are recognized by the Board as "related to architecture":
  • Architectural Design.
  • Architectural Engineering.
  • Architectural Studies.
  • Architectural Technology.
  • Building Science.
  • City and Regional Planning.
  • Civil Engineering.
  • Construction Engineering.

Do architects get paid well in USA? ›

Best-paid skills and qualifications for Architects

Architects with this skill earn +25.34% more than the average base salary, which is $95,877 per year.

Are architects paid well in US? ›

On average, architects in the United States earn around $107,945 per year . However, some architect salaries in the United States can range from $130,826 – $151,388 per year.

How much is an architect paid in USA? ›

How Much Do Architect Jobs Pay per Year? $64,500 is the 25th percentile. Salaries below this are outliers. $92,500 is the 75th percentile.

Do architects have a good future? ›

Architects will undoubtedly be required in the future, as the demand for designs, urban planning, architectural building, and property development will always outnumber the number of individuals available to do the same task.

Is it worth doing Masters in architecture in USA? ›

If you have just graduated with a bachelor's degree, it is not advisable to continue straight to master's in architecture. This is not to say it is not allowed, many have done it actually. But as a fresh graduate, the work experience you will gain in the first few years of your career is very valuable.

Is it stressful to be an architect? ›

7. The stress. Meeting the client's requirements, dealing with the contractors and trying to balance spending time with your family does lead to a lot of stress and anxiety. Responsibility also puts a lot of pressure on an individual.

Who is the richest architect? ›

Lord Norman Foster is the most prosperous architect in the world, with a net worth of $240 million. He founded his well-known architectural firm Foster + Partners back in 1967, and he is known for his sleek glass and steel structures.

Which architecture firm pays the best? ›

Top 10 Highest-Paying Architects Companies
CompanySalary for Architects
Moseley Architects$104,720
Elkus Manfredi Architects$82,936
ZGF Architects$80,690
Ennead Architects$78,905
6 more rows
Feb 21, 2022

Where in the US do architects make the most money? ›

10 States Where Architects Earn the Most Money
  • California average architect salary: $98,050.
  • Texas average architect salary: $94,030.
  • Alaska average architect salary: $92,420.
  • Maryland average architect salary: $92,190.
  • Nebraska average architect salary: $88,970.
  • Alabama average architect salary: $88,560.
Oct 31, 2020

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