Surveyors vs. Civil Engineers: Who Earns More?
Civil Engineerss out-earn Surveyorss by $25K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Surveyorss land at $75,440 and Civil Engineerss at $100,840. The education gap is real: surveyor programs typically require bachelor's degree, while civil engineer programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Surveyorss is California ($105,330); for Civil Engineerss it's California ($122,500).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Surveyors median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Surveyorss or Civil Engineerss?
Civil Engineerss earn more nationally. The median is $75,440 for Surveyorss versus $100,840 for Civil Engineerss, a difference of $25K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Surveyors 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, Surveyors or Civil Engineers?
Surveyors typically requires bachelor's degree. Civil Engineers requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Surveyorss get paid the most?
California is the top-paying state for Surveyorss at $105,330/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Surveyors vs. Civil Engineers pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In California, Surveyorss earn $105,330 vs. $122,500 for Civil Engineerss. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.