Civil engineer pay
What civil engineers earn — and keep — in 2026
Civil engineering designs the roads, bridges, water systems and buildings around us, and pays well for a bachelor's-degree career. The BLS reports a median civil engineer wage of $99,590 (May 2024). PE-licensed engineers and those in management earn more — the top 10% exceed $150,000.
Where a civil engineer's paycheck goes
On the $99,590 median, a single civil engineer pays federal income tax into the 22% bracket after the standard deduction, plus 6.2% Social Security and 1.45% Medicare. Public-sector engineers may contribute to a pension that lowers take-home but builds retirement benefits.
The highest-paying states for civil engineers
Civil engineers earn the most in states with heavy infrastructure and construction activity — including California, Texas, New York, Washington and Illinois. Texas and Washington pair strong engineering pay with no state income tax.
Compare the role with other careers
See how civil engineer pay compares with a mechanical engineer or architect, or check your exact net in Texas.
Questions
Civil Engineer Salary Calculator FAQ
How much does a civil engineer make in 2026?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median annual wage of $99,590 for civil engineers (May 2024). PE-licensed engineers and those in project or principal roles earn more, and the top 10% exceed $150,000.
What is a civil engineer's take-home pay on $99,590?
A single civil engineer earning the $99,590 median takes home roughly $75,000 to $77,000 a year after federal income tax and FICA in a no-income-tax state, less where state tax applies. Public-sector pension contributions reduce take-home but build benefits.
Does a PE license raise a civil engineer's salary?
Yes. The Professional Engineer (PE) license is required to stamp engineering drawings and approve projects, so licensed engineers earn more and qualify for senior roles. A licensure raise or bonus is taxable — enter your actual pay for an accurate estimate.
Which states pay civil engineers the most?
Civil engineers earn the highest wages in infrastructure-heavy states including California, Texas, New York, Washington and Illinois. No-income-tax states like Texas and Washington keep more of your engineering salary.
- Sources: BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook — Civil Engineers (median $99,590, May 2024) · IRS Rev. Proc. 2025-32 · SSA 2026 wage base · State departments of revenue.
- 🔄 Last updated June 9, 2026 · Tax year 2026
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