Civil Engineers: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 355,410 civil engineers, and they earn a median of $99,590/year. The range runs from $66K to $161K. California pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level civil engineers start around $66K. The gap between that and the median ($100K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $161K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| California | $118K | 54,640 |
| Rhode Island | $112K | 1,200 |
| Alaska | $107K | 1,540 |
| Washington | $105K | 11,900 |
| New Mexico | $105K | 1,400 |
| Massachusetts | $104K | 9,460 |
| Mississippi | $104K | 2,050 |
| New Jersey | $104K | 6,780 |
| Oregon | $103K | 4,140 |
| New York | $102K | 17,000 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a civil engineers make?▼
The median civil engineers salary in the United States is $99,590 per year ($48/hour). Entry-level positions start around $65,920, while experienced professionals earn up to $160,990.
What education do you need to become a civil engineers?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for civil engineers?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for civil engineers.
What are the highest paying states for civil engineers?▼
The highest paying states for civil engineers are California ($118,450), Rhode Island ($112,250), Alaska ($107,240), Washington ($105,090), New Mexico ($104,600). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.