Materials Engineers vs. Civil Engineers: Who Earns More?
Materials Engineers out-earn Civil Engineers by $12K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Materials Engineers land at $112,860 and Civil Engineers 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 Engineers is New Mexico ($165,600); for Civil Engineers 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 Engineers or Civil Engineers?
Materials Engineers earn more nationally. The median is $112,860 for Materials Engineers versus $100,840 for Civil Engineers, a difference of $12K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Materials Engineers or Civil Engineers?
Materials Engineers has the better 10-year outlook at 5.7% projected growth, compared to 5% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
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 Engineers get paid the most?
New Mexico is the top-paying state for Materials Engineers 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 Engineers earn $165,600 vs. $103,900 for Civil Engineers. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.