Chemical Engineers vs. Civil Engineers: Who Earns More?
Chemical Engineerss out-earn Civil Engineerss by $24K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Chemical Engineerss land at $125,040 and Civil Engineerss at $100,840. The education gap is real: chemical engineer programs typically require bachelor's degree, while civil engineer programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Chemical Engineerss is New Mexico ($158,190); for Civil Engineerss it's California ($122,500).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Chemical Engineers median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Chemical Engineerss or Civil Engineerss?
Chemical Engineerss earn more nationally. The median is $125,040 for Chemical Engineerss versus $100,840 for Civil Engineerss, a difference of $24K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Chemical 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, Chemical Engineers or Civil Engineers?
Chemical Engineers typically requires bachelor's degree. Civil Engineers requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Chemical Engineerss get paid the most?
New Mexico is the top-paying state for Chemical Engineerss at $158,190/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Chemical Engineers vs. Civil Engineers pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In New Mexico, Chemical Engineerss earn $158,190 vs. $103,900 for Civil Engineerss. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.