Electrical Engineers vs. Civil Engineers: Who Earns More?
Electrical Engineers out-earn Civil Engineers by $20K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Electrical Engineers land at $120,630 and Civil Engineers at $100,840. The education gap is real: electrical engineer programs typically require bachelor's degree, while civil engineer programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Electrical Engineers is New Mexico ($158,520); for Civil Engineers it's California ($122,500).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Electrical Engineers median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Electrical Engineers or Civil Engineers?
Electrical Engineers earn more nationally. The median is $120,630 for Electrical Engineers versus $100,840 for Civil Engineers, a difference of $20K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Electrical Engineers or Civil Engineers?
Electrical Engineers has the better 10-year outlook at 7.2% projected growth, compared to 5% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Electrical Engineers or Civil Engineers?
Electrical Engineers typically requires bachelor's degree. Civil Engineers requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Electrical Engineers get paid the most?
New Mexico is the top-paying state for Electrical Engineers at $158,520/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Electrical Engineers vs. Civil Engineers pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In New Mexico, Electrical Engineers earn $158,520 vs. $103,900 for Civil Engineers. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.