Civil Engineer Salary
Estimated Pay by Experience Level
Salary by State
Median annual| State | Median / yr | Relative pay |
|---|---|---|
| California | $122,500 | |
| Alaska | $114,730 | |
| Washington | $110,000 | |
| Massachusetts | $106,730 | |
| Louisiana | $105,380 | |
| Oregon | $105,250 | |
| New Jersey | $104,660 | |
| Nevada | $104,310 | |
| National Median | $100,840 |
View all 51 states arrow_forward
The highest sticker pay isn't always where civil engineers keep the most. See Civil Engineer pay adjusted for cost of living by state in the Real Pay Index.
How to Become a Civil Engineer
Civil engineers design, build, and maintain infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, dams, and water systems.
Meet the education requirement
Most civil engineers enter the field with bachelor's degree. Programs are offered by community colleges, trade schools, and universities.
Complete an accredited training program
Hands-on coursework and clinical or field experience prepare you for the work and for certification exams.
Earn the Professional Engineer (PE) license
Most employers expect this credential — and in many states it's required to practice. Entry pay starts near $68,240 and rises toward $163,220 with experience.
Civil Engineer salary: common questions
How much does a Civil Engineer make an hour?
The median hourly wage for civil engineers is $48.48, which works out to about $100,840 per year for full-time work.
Which state pays civil engineers the most?
California has the highest median pay for civil engineers at $122,500 per year — 21% above the national median of $100,840.
What is the salary range for civil engineers?
Most civil engineers earn between $68,240 and $163,220 per year. The middle 50% earn $79,930 to $129,680, with a median of $100,840.
Is becoming a Civil Engineer a good career?
Employment is projected to grow 5% (faster than average), and the role typically requires bachelor's degree. With a median wage of $100,840 per year, it pays well above the U.S. median for all occupations.