Materials Engineers vs. Civil Engineers: Who Earns More?
Materials Engineerss out-earn Civil Engineerss by $12K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Materials Engineerss land at $112,860 and Civil Engineerss at $100,840. The education gap is real: materials engineer programs typically require bachelor's degree, while civil engineer programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Materials Engineerss is New Mexico ($165,600); for Civil Engineerss it's California ($122,500).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Materials Engineers median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Materials Engineerss or Civil Engineerss?
Materials Engineerss earn more nationally. The median is $112,860 for Materials Engineerss versus $100,840 for Civil Engineerss, a difference of $12K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Materials Engineers or Civil 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, Materials Engineers or Civil Engineers?
Materials Engineers typically requires bachelor's degree. Civil Engineers requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Materials Engineerss get paid the most?
New Mexico is the top-paying state for Materials Engineerss at $165,600/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Materials Engineers vs. Civil Engineers pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In New Mexico, Materials Engineerss earn $165,600 vs. $103,900 for Civil Engineerss. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.