Civil 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.
Civil Engineer
Design and oversee construction of infrastructure like roads, bridges, and buildings.
Nuclear Engineer
Design and operate nuclear reactors and systems for energy or medical applications.
Nuclear Engineer earns more on average — the national median is $32,000/year (37%) 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 Nuclear Engineer — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Civil Engineer | Nuclear Engineer | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $128,485 | $169,384 | Civil $40,899 |
| New York, NY | $105,519 | $142,900 | Civil $37,381 |
| Seattle, WA | $122,246 | $172,718 | Civil $50,472 |
| Austin, TX | $97,185 | $127,925 | Civil $30,740 |
| Chicago, IL | $93,716 | $126,434 | Civil $32,718 |
| Boston, MA | $113,004 | $150,056 | Civil $37,052 |
| London, UK | £68,719 | £90,709 | Civil $21,990 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$105,381 | CA$157,993 | Civil $52,612 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Civil Engineer or Nuclear Engineer earn more?+
A Nuclear Engineer earns more on average. The national median salary for a Civil Engineer is $86,000/year, compared to $118,000/year for a Nuclear Engineer — a difference of $32,000 (37%).
Which has better career growth — Civil Engineer or Nuclear Engineer?+
Civil Engineer roles are growing at 7% YoY while Nuclear Engineer demand is growing at 5% YoY. Civil Engineer has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Civil 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 — Civil Engineer or Nuclear Engineer?+
Nuclear Engineer has a lower AI automation risk (15% vs 30%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.