Civil Engineer vs Chemical Engineer: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Civil Engineer
Design and oversee construction of infrastructure like roads, bridges, and buildings.
Chemical Engineer
Design and optimise chemical processes for manufacturing and production.
Chemical Engineer earns more on average — the national median is $18,000/year (21%) higher than a Civil Engineer. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Civil Engineer vs Chemical Engineer — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Civil Engineer | Chemical Engineer | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $128,485 | $149,181 | Civil $20,696 |
| New York, NY | $105,519 | $126,802 | Civil $21,283 |
| Seattle, WA | $122,246 | $151,848 | Civil $29,602 |
| Austin, TX | $97,185 | $115,150 | Civil $17,965 |
| Chicago, IL | $93,716 | $113,398 | Civil $19,682 |
| Boston, MA | $113,004 | $136,395 | Civil $23,391 |
| London, UK | £68,719 | £81,580 | Civil $12,861 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$105,381 | CA$138,078 | Civil $32,697 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Civil Engineer or Chemical Engineer earn more?+
A Chemical Engineer earns more on average. The national median salary for a Civil Engineer is $86,000/year, compared to $104,000/year for a Chemical Engineer — a difference of $18,000 (21%).
Which has better career growth — Civil Engineer or Chemical Engineer?+
Civil Engineer roles are growing at 7% YoY while Chemical Engineer demand is growing at 8% YoY. Chemical Engineer has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Civil Engineer to Chemical 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 — Civil Engineer or Chemical Engineer?+
Civil Engineer has a lower AI automation risk (30% vs 40%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.