Environmental Engineers vs. Industrial Engineers: Who Earns More?
Environmental Engineers out-earn Industrial Engineers by $5K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Environmental Engineers land at $107,110 and Industrial Engineers 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 Engineers is Louisiana ($130,510); for Industrial Engineers 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 Engineers or Industrial Engineers?
Environmental Engineers earn more nationally. The median is $107,110 for Environmental Engineers versus $102,440 for Industrial Engineers, a difference of $5K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Environmental Engineers or Industrial Engineers?
Industrial Engineers has the better 10-year outlook at 11% projected growth, compared to 3.9% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
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 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. Industrial Engineers pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Louisiana, Environmental Engineers earn $130,510 vs. $122,920 for Industrial Engineers. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.