Aerospace Engineers vs. Industrial Engineers: Who Earns More?
Aerospace Engineerss out-earn Industrial Engineerss by $33K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Aerospace Engineerss land at $134,960 and Industrial Engineerss at $102,440. The education gap is real: aerospace engineer programs typically require bachelor's degree, while industrial engineer programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Aerospace Engineerss is Minnesota ($159,060); for Industrial Engineerss it's Alaska ($156,510).
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 Industrial Engineerss?
Aerospace Engineerss earn more nationally. The median is $134,960 for Aerospace Engineerss versus $102,440 for Industrial Engineerss, a difference of $33K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Aerospace Engineers or Industrial 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 Industrial Engineers?
Aerospace Engineers typically requires bachelor's degree. Industrial 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. Industrial Engineers pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Washington, Aerospace Engineerss earn $158,370 vs. $129,050 for Industrial Engineerss. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.