Chemical Engineers vs. Industrial Engineers: Who Earns More?
Chemical Engineerss out-earn Industrial Engineerss by $23K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Chemical Engineerss land at $125,040 and Industrial Engineerss at $102,440. The education gap is real: chemical engineer programs typically require bachelor's degree, while industrial engineer programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Chemical Engineerss is New Mexico ($158,190); for Industrial Engineerss it's Alaska ($156,510).
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 Industrial Engineerss?
Chemical Engineerss earn more nationally. The median is $125,040 for Chemical Engineerss versus $102,440 for Industrial Engineerss, a difference of $23K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Chemical 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, Chemical Engineers or Industrial Engineers?
Chemical Engineers typically requires bachelor's degree. Industrial 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. Industrial Engineers pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In New Mexico, Chemical Engineerss earn $158,190 vs. $128,090 for Industrial Engineerss. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.