Petroleum Engineers vs. Civil Engineers: Who Earns More?
Petroleum Engineers out-earn Civil Engineers by $44K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Petroleum Engineers land at $144,910 and Civil Engineers at $100,840. The education gap is real: petroleum engineer programs typically require bachelor's degree, while civil engineer programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Petroleum Engineers is Alaska ($206,290); for Civil Engineers it's California ($122,500).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Petroleum Engineers median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Petroleum Engineers or Civil Engineers?
Petroleum Engineers earn more nationally. The median is $144,910 for Petroleum Engineers versus $100,840 for Civil Engineers, a difference of $44K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Petroleum Engineers or Civil Engineers?
Civil Engineers has the better 10-year outlook at 5% projected growth, compared to 1.3% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Petroleum Engineers or Civil Engineers?
Petroleum Engineers typically requires bachelor's degree. Civil Engineers requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Petroleum Engineers get paid the most?
Alaska is the top-paying state for Petroleum Engineers at $206,290/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Petroleum Engineers vs. Civil Engineers pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Alaska, Petroleum Engineers earn $206,290 vs. $114,730 for Civil Engineers. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.