Environmental Engineers vs. Industrial Engineers: Who Earns More?
Environmental Engineerss out-earn Industrial Engineerss by $5K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Environmental Engineerss land at $107,110 and Industrial Engineerss at $102,440. The education gap is real: environmental engineer programs typically require bachelor's degree, while industrial engineer programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Environmental Engineerss is Louisiana ($130,510); for Industrial Engineerss it's Alaska ($156,510).
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 Engineerss or Industrial Engineerss?
Environmental Engineerss earn more nationally. The median is $107,110 for Environmental Engineerss versus $102,440 for Industrial Engineerss, a difference of $5K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Environmental Engineers or Industrial 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, Environmental Engineers or Industrial Engineers?
Environmental Engineers typically requires bachelor's degree. Industrial Engineers requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Environmental Engineerss get paid the most?
Louisiana is the top-paying state for Environmental Engineerss 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. Industrial Engineers pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Louisiana, Environmental Engineerss earn $130,510 vs. $122,920 for Industrial Engineerss. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.