Civil Engineers vs. Industrial Engineers: Who Earns More?
Industrial Engineerss out-earn Civil Engineerss by $2K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Civil Engineerss land at $100,840 and Industrial Engineerss at $102,440. The education gap is real: civil engineer programs typically require bachelor's degree, while industrial engineer programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Civil Engineerss is California ($122,500); for Industrial Engineerss it's Alaska ($156,510).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Civil Engineers median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Civil Engineerss or Industrial Engineerss?
Industrial Engineerss earn more nationally. The median is $100,840 for Civil Engineerss versus $102,440 for Industrial Engineerss, a difference of $2K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Civil 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, Civil Engineers or Industrial Engineers?
Civil Engineers typically requires bachelor's degree. Industrial Engineers requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Civil Engineerss get paid the most?
California is the top-paying state for Civil Engineerss at $122,500/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Civil Engineers vs. Industrial Engineers pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In California, Civil Engineerss earn $122,500 vs. $124,600 for Industrial Engineerss. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.