Nuclear Engineers vs. Civil Engineers: Who Earns More?
Nuclear Engineerss out-earn Civil Engineerss by $33K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Nuclear Engineerss land at $133,970 and Civil Engineerss at $100,840. The education gap is real: nuclear engineer programs typically require bachelor's degree, while civil engineer programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Nuclear Engineerss is District of Columbia ($195,190); for Civil Engineerss it's California ($122,500).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Nuclear Engineers median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Nuclear Engineerss or Civil Engineerss?
Nuclear Engineerss earn more nationally. The median is $133,970 for Nuclear Engineerss versus $100,840 for Civil Engineerss, a difference of $33K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Nuclear 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, Nuclear Engineers or Civil Engineers?
Nuclear Engineers typically requires bachelor's degree. Civil Engineers requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Nuclear Engineerss get paid the most?
District of Columbia is the top-paying state for Nuclear Engineerss at $195,190/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Nuclear Engineers vs. Civil Engineers pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In District of Columbia, Nuclear Engineerss earn $195,190 vs. $103,880 for Civil Engineerss. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.