Nuclear Engineers vs. Industrial Engineers: Who Earns More?
Nuclear Engineers out-earn Industrial Engineers by $32K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Nuclear Engineers land at $133,970 and Industrial Engineers at $102,440. The education gap is real: nuclear engineer programs typically require bachelor's degree, while industrial engineer programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Nuclear Engineers is District of Columbia ($195,190); for Industrial Engineers it's Alaska ($156,510).
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 Engineers or Industrial Engineers?
Nuclear Engineers earn more nationally. The median is $133,970 for Nuclear Engineers versus $102,440 for Industrial Engineers, a difference of $32K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Nuclear Engineers or Industrial Engineers?
Industrial Engineers has the better 10-year outlook at 11% projected growth, compared to -1.1% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Nuclear Engineers or Industrial Engineers?
Nuclear Engineers typically requires bachelor's degree. Industrial Engineers requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Nuclear Engineers get paid the most?
District of Columbia is the top-paying state for Nuclear Engineers 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. Industrial Engineers pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In District of Columbia, Nuclear Engineers earn $195,190 vs. $103,300 for Industrial Engineers. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.