Demand for architectural design services has grown for the ninth consecutive month, according to the latest economic report released by the American Institute of Architects. The Architecture Billings Index (ABI) for October remained at an elevated, positive score of 54.3, softening only slightly from September’s score of 56.6.

New project inquiries and design contracts expanded from the previous month, reporting scores of 61.8 and 54.7 respectively.

October ABI Highlights

• Regional averages: Midwest (61.9); South (58.2); West (53.4); Northeast (48.6)

• Sector index breakdown: mixed practice (58.7); commercial/industrial (57.4); multi-family residential (55.8); institutional (51.4)

"Unlike the economy-wide payroll figures, architecture services employment has surpassed its pre-pandemic high," said AIA Chief Economist, Kermit Baker, Hon. AIA, PhD. "Staffing continues to be a growing concern at architecture firms and may serve to limit their ability to take on new projects."

Archinect Jobs, the industry-leading architecture job board, has seen a sharp increase in hiring activity in recent months. Take a look at the long list of opportunities or post your firm's openings now. To browse thousands of job seeker profiles and find the right candidates quickly, try Archinect's Talent Finder service.