Chemical Engineers vs. Industrial Engineers: Who Earns More?
Chemical Engineers out-earn Industrial Engineers by $23K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Chemical Engineers land at $125,040 and Industrial Engineers 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 Engineers is New Mexico ($158,190); for Industrial Engineers 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 Engineers or Industrial Engineers?
Chemical Engineers earn more nationally. The median is $125,040 for Chemical Engineers versus $102,440 for Industrial Engineers, a difference of $23K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Chemical Engineers or Industrial Engineers?
Industrial Engineers has the better 10-year outlook at 11% projected growth, compared to 2.6% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
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 Engineers get paid the most?
New Mexico is the top-paying state for Chemical Engineers 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 Engineers earn $158,190 vs. $128,090 for Industrial Engineers. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.