Urban and Regional Planners: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 43,040 urban and regional planners, and they earn a median of $83,720/year. The range runs from $56K to $129K. District of Columbia pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level urban and regional planners start around $56K. The gap between that and the median ($84K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $129K, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $130K | 140 |
| California | $105K | 7,630 |
| Washington | $98K | 2,840 |
| Connecticut | $95K | 380 |
| New York | $95K | 2,100 |
| Oregon | $92K | 1,100 |
| Minnesota | $92K | 830 |
| Nevada | $89K | 240 |
| Massachusetts | $88K | 1,570 |
| Maryland | $87K | 800 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a urban and regional planners make?▼
The median urban and regional planners salary in the United States is $83,720 per year ($40/hour). Entry-level positions start around $55,590, while experienced professionals earn up to $128,550.
What education do you need to become a urban and regional planners?▼
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 urban and regional planners?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for urban and regional planners.
What are the highest paying states for urban and regional planners?▼
The highest paying states for urban and regional planners are District of Columbia ($129,750), California ($105,230), Washington ($98,190), Connecticut ($94,960), New York ($94,740). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.