Structural 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.
Structural Engineer
Design load-bearing structures including buildings and bridges.
Nuclear Engineer
Design and operate nuclear reactors and systems for energy or medical applications.
Nuclear Engineer earns more on average — the national median is $24,000/year (26%) higher than a Structural Engineer. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Structural Engineer vs Nuclear Engineer — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Structural Engineer | Nuclear Engineer | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $132,928 | $169,384 | Structural $36,456 |
| New York, NY | $115,250 | $142,900 | Structural $27,650 |
| Seattle, WA | $133,928 | $172,718 | Structural $38,790 |
| Austin, TX | $103,233 | $127,925 | Structural $24,692 |
| Chicago, IL | $99,645 | $126,434 | Structural $26,789 |
| Boston, MA | $125,714 | $150,056 | Structural $24,342 |
| London, UK | £71,504 | £90,709 | Structural $19,205 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$125,929 | CA$157,993 | Structural $32,064 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Structural Engineer or Nuclear Engineer earn more?+
A Nuclear Engineer earns more on average. The national median salary for a Structural Engineer is $94,000/year, compared to $118,000/year for a Nuclear Engineer — a difference of $24,000 (26%).
Which has better career growth — Structural Engineer or Nuclear Engineer?+
Structural Engineer roles are growing at 6% YoY while Nuclear Engineer demand is growing at 5% YoY. Structural Engineer has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Structural 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 — Structural Engineer or Nuclear Engineer?+
Nuclear Engineer has a lower AI automation risk (15% vs 32%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.