Computer Hardware Engineers vs. Civil Engineers: Who Earns More?
Computer Hardware Engineers out-earn Civil Engineers by $61K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Computer Hardware Engineers land at $161,740 and Civil Engineers at $100,840. The education gap is real: computer hardware engineer programs typically require bachelor's degree, while civil engineer programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Computer Hardware Engineers is California ($185,180); for Civil Engineers it's California ($122,500).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Computer Hardware Engineers median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Computer Hardware Engineers or Civil Engineers?
Computer Hardware Engineers earn more nationally. The median is $161,740 for Computer Hardware Engineers versus $100,840 for Civil Engineers, a difference of $61K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Computer Hardware Engineers or Civil Engineers?
Computer Hardware Engineers has the better 10-year outlook at 7.3% projected growth, compared to 5% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Computer Hardware Engineers or Civil Engineers?
Computer Hardware Engineers typically requires bachelor's degree. Civil Engineers requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Computer Hardware Engineers get paid the most?
California is the top-paying state for Computer Hardware Engineers at $185,180/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Computer Hardware Engineers vs. Civil Engineers pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In California, Computer Hardware Engineers earn $185,180 vs. $122,500 for Civil Engineers. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.