Aerospace Engineer Salary in the United States
Based on 68K+ data points from BLS and H-1B filings
Median Annual Salary
$126,293
$60.718/hr
▲ 3.6% vs 2023Salary Range
$97K – $206K
10th – 90th percentile
Total Employed
68K
workers nationwide
Aerospace Engineer salary in the United States reflects strong compensation for specialized technical work. The median annual salary stands at $126,293, with approximately 67,900 professionals currently employed in this field. This salary level positions aerospace engineers among the higher-paid engineering disciplines, rewarding the expertise required in this competitive sector.
Several factors influence individual aerospace engineer compensation across the country. Experience level, educational credentials, and specialized certifications significantly impact earning potential. Geographic location, company size, and industry focus—whether defense, commercial aviation, or space exploration—also play crucial roles in determining salary. Additional factors include security clearance status and performance history within the organization.
Salary Distribution — Aerospace Engineer
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $96,610 |
| 25th percentile | $137,280 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $126,293 |
| 75th percentile | $191,880 |
| 90th percentile | $205,840 |
Aerospace Engineer Salary by State
Top 10 Highest-Paying States for Aerospace Engineer
| # | State | Median Salary | vs National | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | $175,350 | +38.8% | 330 |
| 2 | Washington | $158,600 | +25.6% | 6K |
| 3 | Maryland | $158,220 | +25.3% | 3K |
| 4 | Massachusetts | $152,210 | +20.5% | 990 |
| 5 | Colorado | $151,570 | +20.0% | 4K |
| 6 | Iowa | $150,010 | +18.8% | — |
| 7 | Minnesota | $147,940 | +17.1% | 140 |
| 8 | California | $143,860 | +13.9% | 9K |
| 9 | Georgia | $142,910 | +13.2% | 3K |
| 10 | Vermont | $140,520 | +11.3% | 90 |
Historical Salary Trend — Aerospace Engineer
| Year | Median Salary (United States) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $112,679 |
| 2023 | $121,877 |
| 2024 | $126,293 |
Aerospace Engineer Salary by Experience Level
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do aerospace engineers make per hour in the United States?
- The median hourly wage for aerospace engineers in the United States is $61/hour. This translates to an annual median salary of $126,293, though hourly rates can vary based on experience, location, and employer.
What is the salary range for aerospace engineers?
- Aerospace engineer salaries in the United States range from $96,610 to $205,840 per year. This wide range reflects differences in experience level, geographic location, and specific job responsibilities.
Which city pays aerospace engineers the most?
- The District of Columbia is the top paying city for aerospace engineers, offering a median salary of $175,350 per year. This is significantly higher than the national median of $126,293.
How many aerospace engineers are employed in the United States?
- There are approximately 67,900 aerospace engineers currently employed in the United States. This represents the total employment count for this specialized engineering profession.