Computer Hardware Engineers vs. Civil Engineers: Who Earns More?
Computer Hardware Engineerss out-earn Civil Engineerss by $61K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Computer Hardware Engineerss land at $161,740 and Civil Engineerss 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 Engineerss is California ($185,180); for Civil Engineerss 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 Engineerss or Civil Engineerss?
Computer Hardware Engineerss earn more nationally. The median is $161,740 for Computer Hardware Engineerss versus $100,840 for Civil Engineerss, a difference of $61K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Computer Hardware Engineers or Civil 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, 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 Engineerss get paid the most?
California is the top-paying state for Computer Hardware Engineerss 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 Engineerss earn $185,180 vs. $122,500 for Civil Engineerss. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.