Aerospace Engineer vs Nuclear Engineer: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Aerospace Engineer
Design and develop aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems.
Nuclear Engineer
Design and operate nuclear reactors and systems for energy or medical applications.
Aerospace Engineer earns more on average — the national median is $2,000/year (2%) higher than a Nuclear Engineer. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Aerospace Engineer vs Nuclear Engineer — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Aerospace Engineer | Nuclear Engineer | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $174,621 | $169,384 | Aerospace +$5,237 |
| New York, NY | $141,522 | $142,900 | Aerospace $1,378 |
| Seattle, WA | $173,451 | $172,718 | Aerospace +$733 |
| Austin, TX | $131,599 | $127,925 | Aerospace +$3,674 |
| Chicago, IL | $128,078 | $126,434 | Aerospace +$1,644 |
| Boston, MA | $152,910 | $150,056 | Aerospace +$2,854 |
| London, UK | £95,528 | £90,709 | Aerospace +$4,819 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$160,782 | CA$157,993 | Aerospace +$2,789 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Aerospace Engineer or Nuclear Engineer earn more?+
A Aerospace Engineer earns more on average. The national median salary for a Aerospace Engineer is $120,000/year, compared to $118,000/year for a Nuclear Engineer — a difference of $2,000 (2%).
Which has better career growth — Aerospace Engineer or Nuclear Engineer?+
Aerospace Engineer roles are growing at 6% YoY while Nuclear Engineer demand is growing at 5% YoY. Aerospace Engineer has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Aerospace Engineer to Nuclear Engineer?+
Yes. Many professionals transition between these roles, especially since both are in the same category. Shared skills include: analytical thinking, communication, and industry knowledge.
Which is harder to automate — Aerospace Engineer or Nuclear Engineer?+
Nuclear Engineer has a lower AI automation risk (15% vs 30%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.