Instructional Designer Salary in 2026
Source: BLS OES May 2024 · Updated April 2026
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OES May 2024), the median annual salary for a Instructional Designer is $74,720 per year. The BLS projects 1.3% employment growth for this occupation over the 2024–2034 decade.
How Much Do Instructional Designers Make?
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Median Annual Salary | $74,720 |
| 10-Year Job Growth | 1.3% |
| Total Employment | 210,850 |
| Typical Education | Master's degree |
| SOC Code | 25-9031 |
Which Skills Increase Instructional Designer Pay?
Instructional Designers with these high-demand tools and technologies typically command higher salaries.
Learning management system LMSMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointAdobe AcrobatAdobe After EffectsAdobe Creative Cloud softwareAdobe IllustratorAdobe InDesign
Full skills breakdown →
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the average salary for a Instructional Designer?
- The median annual salary for a Instructional Designer is $74,720 per year, based on the most recent national wage survey data.
- Is Instructional Designer a growing career?
- Employment for Instructional Designer roles is projected to grow 1.3% over the 2024–2034 decade. Total employment is currently 210,850 workers nationally.
- What skills increase Instructional Designer pay?
- Instructional Designers who demonstrate skills like Learning management system LMS, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Office software, Microsoft Outlook typically command higher salaries. Certifications and advanced tools expertise can further boost compensation.
Salary and employment figures: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OES May 2024) and Employment Projections 2024–2034. Actual compensation varies by location, experience, and employer.