Aerospace Engineers vs. Civil Engineers: Who Earns More?
Aerospace Engineerss out-earn Civil Engineerss by $34K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Aerospace Engineerss land at $134,960 and Civil Engineerss at $100,840. The education gap is real: aerospace engineer programs typically require bachelor's degree, while civil engineer programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Aerospace Engineerss is Minnesota ($159,060); for Civil Engineerss it's California ($122,500).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Aerospace Engineers median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Aerospace Engineerss or Civil Engineerss?
Aerospace Engineerss earn more nationally. The median is $134,960 for Aerospace Engineerss versus $100,840 for Civil Engineerss, a difference of $34K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Aerospace Engineers or Civil Engineers?
BLS Employment Projections data is not available for one or both occupations. Check the individual career pages for current outlook figures.
Which requires more education, Aerospace Engineers or Civil Engineers?
Aerospace Engineers typically requires bachelor's degree. Civil Engineers requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Aerospace Engineerss get paid the most?
Minnesota is the top-paying state for Aerospace Engineerss at $159,060/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Aerospace Engineers vs. Civil Engineers pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Minnesota, Aerospace Engineerss earn $159,060 vs. $101,480 for Civil Engineerss. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.