Drafters, All Other vs. Civil Engineers: Who Earns More?
Civil Engineers out-earn Drafters, All Other by $37K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Drafters, All Other land at $63,520 and Civil Engineers at $100,840. The education gap is real: drafters, all other programs typically require bachelor's degree, while civil engineer programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Drafters, All Other is New Jersey ($77,840); for Civil Engineers it's California ($122,500).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Drafters, All Other median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Drafters, All Other or Civil Engineers?
Civil Engineers earn more nationally. The median is $63,520 for Drafters, All Other versus $100,840 for Civil Engineers, a difference of $37K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Drafters, All Other or Civil Engineers?
Civil Engineers has the better 10-year outlook at 5% projected growth, compared to -6.9% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Drafters, All Other or Civil Engineers?
Drafters, All Other typically requires bachelor's degree. Civil Engineers requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Drafters, All Other get paid the most?
New Jersey is the top-paying state for Drafters, All Other at $77,840/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Drafters, All Other vs. Civil Engineers pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In New Jersey, Drafters, All Other earn $77,840 vs. $104,660 for Civil Engineers. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.