Environmental Engineers vs. Civil Engineers: Who Earns More?
Environmental Engineers out-earn Civil Engineers by $6K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Environmental Engineers land at $107,110 and Civil Engineers at $100,840. The education gap is real: environmental engineer programs typically require bachelor's degree, while civil engineer programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Environmental Engineers is Louisiana ($130,510); for Civil Engineers it's California ($122,500).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Environmental Engineers median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Environmental Engineers or Civil Engineers?
Environmental Engineers earn more nationally. The median is $107,110 for Environmental Engineers versus $100,840 for Civil Engineers, a difference of $6K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Environmental Engineers or Civil Engineers?
Civil Engineers has the better 10-year outlook at 5% projected growth, compared to 3.9% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Environmental Engineers or Civil Engineers?
Environmental Engineers typically requires bachelor's degree. Civil Engineers requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Environmental Engineers get paid the most?
Louisiana is the top-paying state for Environmental Engineers at $130,510/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Environmental Engineers vs. Civil Engineers pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Louisiana, Environmental Engineers earn $130,510 vs. $105,380 for Civil Engineers. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.