Civil Engineer Salary in the United States
Based on 343K+ data points from BLS and H-1B filings
Median Annual Salary
$96,900
$46.587/hr
▲ 6.9% vs 2023Salary Range
$78K – $172K
10th – 90th percentile
Total Employed
343K
workers nationwide
Civil engineers in the United States earn a median salary of $97,000 per year, with salaries ranging up to $103,407 annually. This compensation reflects the critical role these professionals play in designing and overseeing infrastructure projects nationwide. Our data is based on analysis of 60 civil engineer positions across the country.
Several factors influence civil engineer salary in the United States, including years of experience, professional licensure, and geographic location. Educational background, specialization within civil engineering, and the type of employer—whether government, private consulting, or construction firms—also significantly impact earning potential. Project complexity and regional demand for infrastructure development further shape compensation levels in this field.
Salary Distribution — Civil Engineer
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $77,620 |
| 25th percentile | $94,450 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $96,900 |
| 75th percentile | $145,730 |
| 90th percentile | $171,760 |
Civil Engineer Salary by State
Top 10 Highest-Paying States for Civil Engineer
| # | State | Median Salary | vs National | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | California | $118,450 | +22.2% | 55K |
| 2 | Rhode Island | $112,250 | +15.8% | 1K |
| 3 | Alaska | $107,240 | +10.7% | 2K |
| 4 | Washington | $105,090 | +8.5% | 12K |
| 5 | New Mexico | $104,600 | +7.9% | 1K |
| 6 | Massachusetts | $104,450 | +7.8% | 9K |
| 7 | Mississippi | $103,940 | +7.3% | 2K |
| 8 | New Jersey | $103,690 | +7.0% | 7K |
| 9 | Oregon | $103,070 | +6.4% | 4K |
| 10 | New York | $102,440 | +5.7% | 17K |
Historical Salary Trend — Civil Engineer
| Year | Median Salary (United States) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $86,235 |
| 2023 | $90,685 |
| 2024 | $96,900 |
| 2026 | $97,000 |
Civil Engineer Salary by Experience Level
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do civil engineers make per hour in the United States?
- Civil engineers in the United States earn a median hourly rate of $47/hour. This translates to an annual median salary of $97,000, making it a competitive wage for the profession.
What is the salary range for civil engineers?
- The salary range for civil engineers extends up to $103,407 per year at the high end. This range reflects variations based on experience, location, and specialization within the field.
Which city pays civil engineers the most in the US?
- Texas is the top paying location for civil engineers, with salaries reaching $97,000 per year at the median level. This makes it an attractive market for professionals in this field.
Is $97,000 a good salary for a civil engineer?
- Yes, $97,000 is the median salary for civil engineers in the United States, which represents solid middle-ground compensation for the profession. With potential earnings up to $103,407, the field offers stable and competitive pay for qualified professionals.