Civil Engineers vs. Mechanical Engineers: Who Earns More?
Mechanical Engineers out-earn Civil Engineers by $3K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Civil Engineers land at $100,840 and Mechanical Engineers 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 Engineers is California ($122,500); for Mechanical Engineers 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 Engineers or Mechanical Engineers?
Mechanical Engineers earn more nationally. The median is $100,840 for Civil Engineers versus $104,110 for Mechanical Engineers, 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 9.1% 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 Engineers get paid the most?
California is the top-paying state for Civil Engineers 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 Engineers earn $122,500 vs. $130,900 for Mechanical Engineers. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.