How much does a Civil Engineer make in California?
Last updated: 2024 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Perform engineering duties in planning, designing, and overseeing construction and maintenance of building structures and facilities, such as roads, railroads, airports, bridges, harbors, channels, dams, irrigation projects, pipelines, power plants, and water and sewage systems.
Source: O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor
Salaries for Civil Engineer in California range from $77,620 at the 10th percentile (entry level) to $171,760 at the 90th percentile (experienced). The middle 50% earn between $94,450 and $145,730.
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate | Monthly |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $77,620 | $37.32 | $6,468 |
| 25th Percentile | $94,450 | $45.41 | $7,870 |
| Median (50th) | $118,450 | $56.95 | $9,870 |
| 75th Percentile | $145,730 | $70.06 | $12,144 |
| 90th Percentile (Experienced) | $171,760 | $82.58 | $14,313 |
Note: The mean (average) salary of $122,050 differs from the median because salary distributions are typically skewed by high earners.
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Compare Civil Engineer pay across states — sorted by highest median salary.
Salary data is sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey, 2024 estimates. The OEWS survey covers approximately 1.1 million establishments nationwide.
Annual salaries are calculated based on a standard 2,080-hour work year. Actual compensation may vary based on experience, education, employer, and local market conditions. Figures do not include benefits, bonuses, or overtime pay.
Our Methodology · Data Sources · Source: BLS OEWS