Civil Engineers vs. Mechanical Engineers: Who Earns More?
Mechanical Engineerss out-earn Civil Engineerss by $3K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Civil Engineerss land at $100,840 and Mechanical Engineerss at $104,110. The education gap is real: civil engineer programs typically require bachelor's degree, while mechanical engineer programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Civil Engineerss is California ($122,500); for Mechanical Engineerss it's New Mexico ($157,710).
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 Mechanical Engineerss?
Mechanical Engineerss earn more nationally. The median is $100,840 for Civil Engineerss versus $104,110 for Mechanical Engineerss, a difference of $3K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Civil Engineers or Mechanical Engineers?
Mechanical Engineers has the better 10-year outlook at 10% projected growth, compared to 5% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Civil Engineers or Mechanical Engineers?
Civil Engineers typically requires bachelor's degree. Mechanical 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. Mechanical Engineers pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In California, Civil Engineerss earn $122,500 vs. $130,900 for Mechanical Engineerss. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.