Civil Engineer Salary in Los Angeles, CA: $109,891 (2024)
Official 2024 BLS Data | $52.83/hour | $72,174 - $165,055 range
Median Annual Salary
$109,891
Hourly Rate
$52.83
/hour
Jobs in Area
457
employed
Compare to Other Cities
See All →Los Angeles, CA
$109,891
San Jose, CA
$133,493
in San Jose, CA
Civil Engineer Salary Range in Los Angeles, CA
Annual Salary Range
$72k
10th percentile
$90k
25th
$132k
75th
$165k
90th percentile
Salary Breakdown by Percentile
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $72,174 | $34.70 |
| 25th Percentile | $90,455 | $43.49 |
| Median (50th Percentile) | $109,891 | $52.83 |
| 75th Percentile | $131,522 | $63.23 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $165,055 | $79.35 |
| Average (Mean) | $117,851 | $56.66 |
Civil Engineer Market Insights for Los Angeles, CA
Compensation Overview
This metro area pays Civil Engineers well above the national average, making it an attractive destination for professionals in this field. The local economy supports above-market compensation for this role.
Local Market Context
Los Angeles, CA is a high cost-of-living metro area, which typically correlates with higher nominal salaries. While wages may appear higher, purchasing power should be carefully evaluated against housing, transportation, and everyday expenses in the California market.
Cost of Living Impact
Cost of living adjustments reduce effective purchasing power by approximately 32% compared to national averages. When evaluating opportunities in Los Angeles, CA, factor in higher expenses for housing and daily necessities.
Career Outlook
The Civil Engineer profession offers diverse career opportunities across industries. Professional development and continuous learning are key factors in advancing within this field. With a 129% salary range from entry-level to top earners, there is substantial room for financial growth as you advance in your career.
Tips for Increasing Your Salary
- •Develop specialized expertise to command higher compensation—top earners make 50% more than median salaries
- •Build a professional network through industry associations and local business groups
- •Pursue relevant certifications or advanced education to demonstrate expertise
+15%
vs National Avg
+19%
vs State Avg
129%
Salary Range
457
Jobs in Area
Career Path & Salary Progression
Typical Civil Engineer salary growth in Los Angeles, CA based on experience level.
Entry Level
0-2 years10th percentile
$72,174
/year
Early Career
2-5 years25th percentile
$90,455
/year
Mid Career
5-10 years50th percentile
$109,891
/year
Senior
10-15 years75th percentile
$131,522
/year
Expert
15+ years90th percentile
$165,055
/year
Note: Career progression and salary growth vary based on company size, industry, skills, and performance. These estimates use percentile data from the BLS as a general guide for typical career paths.
Civil Engineer Job Market in Los Angeles, CA
Where Civil Engineers Work
Civil Engineers work across multiple industries including corporations, government agencies, healthcare organizations, and consulting firms. Each sector offers different compensation structures and career trajectories.
Local Employment Landscape
Employment in this occupation is more limited in Los Angeles, CA compared to larger metros. Professionals may find opportunities concentrated among fewer employers, making employer research and networking particularly valuable.
Types of Employers Hiring
Large Corporations
Typically offer comprehensive benefits, structured advancement, and competitive base salaries with bonus potential
Small to Medium Businesses
May provide more responsibility earlier in your career, flexible work arrangements, and equity opportunities
Government Agencies
Known for job security, excellent benefits packages, pension plans, and work-life balance
Professional Services Firms
Provide client exposure, rapid skill development, and often above-market compensation for top performers
Skills That Increase Earning Potential
Job Search Strategy for Los Angeles, CA
- •Research major employers in the Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim area and follow them on LinkedIn for job alerts
- •Join local professional associations for networking and job leads specific to California
- •Tailor your salary expectations based on the Los Angeles, CA market rate of $109,891
- •Consider roles at varying experience levels—entry positions start at $72,174 in this market
Civil Engineer Career Overview in Los Angeles, CA
The job market for Civil Engineers in Los Angeles, CA is emerging, with approximately 457 professionals employed across the metropolitan area. This represents a growing presence of Civil Engineer positions, reflecting the region's economic base and employer diversity in Los Angeles, CA. Employers here pay a premium of 15% above the national median, signaling strong local demand that outpaces supply.
Los Angeles, CA's diverse economy supports engineering roles across multiple sectors including healthcare, education, government, technology, manufacturing, and professional services. Major employers in California range from large corporations and hospital systems to mid-size regional firms and growing startups. This employer diversity provides career stability and mobility, as professionals can advance their careers without necessarily relocating. The mix of public and private sector opportunities also creates varied compensation structures, with some employers offering lower base salaries but stronger benefits and job security.
The growth outlook for Civil Engineer positions in Los Angeles, CA is projected to remain stable with opportunities tied to local economic growth and industry trends. With 457 current positions and a median salary of $109,891, the market provides a solid foundation for career development. Professionals who invest in continuing education and stay current with industry developments position themselves for both job security and upward salary mobility. The combination of Los Angeles, CA's economic trajectory and broader industry trends suggests that qualified Civil Engineers will continue to find opportunities in this market over the coming years.
When comparing Los Angeles, CA to other metros for Civil Engineer careers, the high cost of living (index: 146.3) is an important factor. The nominal median salary of $109,891 translates to roughly $75,113 in purchasing power after adjusting for local costs. This means that despite the higher paycheck, Civil Engineers here may find their dollars stretch less far than peers in more affordable metros. Professionals weighing relocation should run a full cost-of-living comparison that accounts for housing, taxes, transportation, and childcare before making a decision based on salary alone.
The Engineering field in Los Angeles, CA benefits from the region's broader economic ecosystem. Local industry associations, professional networking groups, and continuing education opportunities through area universities and community colleges help Civil Engineers stay connected and advance their careers. California's business incentive programs and workforce development initiatives also play a role in attracting employers and creating positions. For Civil Engineers early in their career, Los Angeles, CA offers the chance to build a professional network in a market where individual contributions are often more visible than in the largest metros, potentially accelerating career progression.
Civil Engineer Compensation Deep Dive in Los Angeles, CA
The salary range for Civil Engineers in Los Angeles, CA spans from $72,174 at the entry level (10th percentile) to $165,055 for top earners (90th percentile), a spread of $92,881. This 129% differential reflects the significant impact that experience, specialization, credentials, and employer type have on compensation in this field. The median salary of $109,891 sits at the midpoint of the market, representing what a Civil Engineer with moderate experience and standard qualifications can expect. The 25th percentile ($90,455) typically corresponds to early-career professionals with 1-3 years of experience, while the 75th percentile ($131,522) reflects seasoned professionals with specialized skills or management responsibilities.
Base salary tells only part of the compensation story for Civil Engineers in Los Angeles, CA. Total compensation packages commonly include health insurance (valued at $6,000-$15,000 annually for employer contributions), retirement plan matching (typically 3-6% of salary, worth $4,396 per year at the median), paid time off (averaging 15-20 days), and in some cases performance bonuses, stock options, or professional development allowances. When evaluating job offers, Civil Engineers should request a total compensation breakdown. A position paying $90,455 with strong benefits may deliver more value than one paying $109,891 with minimal perks.
Cost of living directly impacts how far a Civil Engineer's salary goes in Los Angeles, CA. With a local cost-of-living index of 146.3 (where 100 equals the national average), the median salary of $109,891 provides purchasing power equivalent to approximately $75,113 in an average-cost U.S. city. This means everyday expenses, especially housing, consume a larger share of income here. Civil Engineers should factor in rent or mortgage costs (which may account for 30-40% of gross income) when evaluating offers.
Negotiating Civil Engineer compensation in Los Angeles, CA requires market awareness. The gap between the 25th and 75th percentiles ($90,455 to $131,522) represents the most common negotiation range. Candidates with in-demand certifications, niche expertise, or competing offers have the strongest leverage. In this market, employers already pay above-average rates, so negotiation gains may be more incremental. Asking for a salary review after 6-12 months, signing bonuses, or additional PTO are effective alternatives when base salary flexibility is limited. On an hourly basis, Civil Engineers in this market earn between $35 and $79 per hour, with the median at $53.
Civil Engineer Career Path & Growth in Los Angeles, CA
The career trajectory for Civil Engineers in Los Angeles, CA shows significant earning potential over time. Entry-level professionals start around $72,174, while top earners reach $165,055, representing a 2.3x increase from start to peak. This progression typically unfolds over 10-20 years and is driven by accumulating expertise, taking on leadership responsibilities, developing specializations, and building a professional reputation. In Los Angeles, CA's engineering market, professionals who demonstrate consistent performance improvements and take on increasingly complex projects advance most quickly. Mid-career transitions into management, consulting, or entrepreneurship can also accelerate earnings beyond the standard progression curve.
Civil Engineers in Los Angeles, CA who are exploring career pivots or complementary roles should consider positions such as related professionals in the same field, supervisory roles, and cross-functional positions. These adjacent occupations often share transferable skills and can offer different compensation structures, work environments, or growth trajectories. In Los Angeles, CA's job market, professionals who develop cross-functional capabilities spanning multiple related roles tend to be more resilient to market shifts and better positioned for leadership opportunities. Lateral moves can also provide valuable perspective that strengthens a professional's long-term career trajectory.
The skills most in demand for Civil Engineers in Los Angeles, CA include industry-specific technical competencies, communication and collaboration skills, analytical thinking, and adaptability to new tools and processes. Employers in Los Angeles, CA value professionals who combine deep subject-matter expertise with the ability to work effectively across teams and adapt to evolving industry requirements. Pursuing relevant professional certifications can provide a measurable salary boost of 5-15% and signal commitment to the field. Continuous learning through industry conferences, online courses, and professional associations helps Civil Engineers stay competitive in Los Angeles, CA's evolving job market.
More Questions About Civil Engineer Salaries in Los Angeles, CA
What is the starting salary for a Civil Engineer in Los Angeles, CA?
Entry-level Civil Engineers in Los Angeles, CA (10th percentile) earn approximately $72,174 per year, or about $6,015 per month. The 25th percentile, representing early-career professionals with some experience, earns $90,455. These figures reflect base salary only; new hires may also receive benefits worth an additional 20-30% of base pay. Building specialized skills and pursuing relevant certifications are the fastest paths to moving beyond entry-level compensation.
How much do experienced Civil Engineers make in Los Angeles, CA?
Experienced Civil Engineers at the 75th percentile earn $131,522 annually in Los Angeles, CA, while top earners at the 90th percentile make $165,055. The jump from median ($109,891) to 75th percentile represents a 20% increase, typically achieved through 5-10 years of experience, management responsibilities, or specialized expertise. Senior professionals who combine technical depth with leadership skills are best positioned for top-tier compensation.
Is Los Angeles, CA a good city for Civil Engineers?
Los Angeles, CA pays Civil Engineers well above the national average (15% more), making it an attractive market for this profession. With 457 Civil Engineer positions in the metro area, the market is smaller but can offer less competition and more personal career development. Quality of life, industry presence, and long-term career trajectory should all factor into your evaluation alongside salary data.
How does Civil Engineer pay in Los Angeles, CA compare to the national average?
The median Civil Engineer salary in Los Angeles, CA is $109,891, which is 15% higher than the national median of $95,890. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective purchasing power is $75,113, which provides a more accurate comparison. Within California, Los Angeles, CA ranks among the higher-paying metros for this occupation.
What benefits do Civil Engineers typically receive in Los Angeles, CA?
Beyond base salary, Civil Engineers in Los Angeles, CA typically receive health insurance (medical, dental, vision), retirement contributions (401k matching of 3-6%), paid time off (15-25 days annually), and sometimes performance bonuses or profit sharing. The total value of benefits often adds 25-35% on top of base salary, meaning a Civil Engineer earning the median of $109,891 may receive total compensation of $142,858 or more. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement, professional development budgets, flexible work arrangements, and wellness programs.
What skills are most in demand for Civil Engineers in Los Angeles, CA?
Civil Engineers in Los Angeles, CA who command the highest salaries typically combine core technical competencies with strong communication skills, analytical thinking, adaptability, and a commitment to professional development. Employers in this market particularly value professionals who can demonstrate measurable impact, whether through revenue generation, cost savings, process improvements, or team leadership. Certifications relevant to the Engineering field can increase earning potential by 5-15%. Staying current with industry trends and emerging technologies is essential for career advancement and salary growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
The median civil engineer salary in Los Angeles, CA is $109,891 per year ($52.83/hour) as of 2026. This is based on official U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Salaries range from $72,174 for entry-level positions to $165,055 for experienced professionals in the top 10%.
Entry-level civil engineers in Los Angeles, CA typically start at around $72,174 per year ($34.70/hour), representing the 10th percentile. New graduates and those with less than 2 years of experience fall into this range. With experience and skill development, salaries can progress to the median of $109,891 within 3-5 years.
Civil Engineers in Los Angeles, CA earn a median hourly wage of $52.83 per hour. Hourly rates range from $34.70/hour at entry-level (10th percentile) to $79.35/hour for top earners (90th percentile). Based on a standard 2,080-hour work year, this translates to annual salaries between $72,174 and $165,055.
The median civil engineer salary of $109,891 in Los Angeles, CA is well above the national median of $95,890 (14.6% higher). However, the cost of living is 46% above the national average, which affects purchasing power. This salary places you at the 50th percentile, meaning half of civil engineers in the area earn more and half earn less.
Civil Engineers in Los Angeles, CA earn well above the national average. The local median salary of $109,891 is 14.6% higher than the national median of $95,890. However, the cost of living is 46% above the national average, which affects purchasing power. When adjusted for cost of living, the effective salary is approximately $75,113.
The top 10% of civil engineers in Los Angeles, CA earn $165,055 or more per year ($79.35/hour). These top earners typically have 10+ years of experience, advanced certifications, specialized expertise, or hold senior/management positions. The 75th percentile earns $131,522, which is a realistic goal for mid-career professionals.
Key skills that can boost civil engineer salary in Los Angeles, CA include: Strong communication and interpersonal abilities, Problem-solving and critical thinking, Technical proficiency relevant to the field, Attention to detail and organizational skills. Professionals with these skills often earn above the median of $109,891, potentially reaching the 75th percentile ($131,522) or higher. Years of relevant experience
Los Angeles, CA has a specialized job market for civil engineers, with approximately 457 professionals employed in the area. The median salary of $109,891 is well above the national average. However, the cost of living is 46% above the national average, which affects purchasing power. Job seekers should consider both salary and local industry demand when evaluating opportunities.
Compare your civil engineer salary to these Los Angeles, CA benchmarks: 10th percentile (entry-level): $72,174, 25th percentile: $90,455, 50th percentile (median): $109,891, 75th percentile: $131,522, 90th percentile (top earners): $165,055. If you earn more than $109,891, you're above average for the area.
Beyond the $109,891 median base salary, civil engineers in Los Angeles, CA typically receive comprehensive benefits including health insurance (medical, dental, vision), retirement plans (401k with employer matching), paid time off (15-25 days), and potentially bonuses or profit-sharing. Total compensation including benefits typically adds 25-40% to base salary value.
Experienced civil engineers with 5-10 years in Los Angeles, CA typically earn $131,522 (75th percentile) to $165,055 (90th percentile) per year. Senior professionals with 10+ years, certifications, or management roles can reach the top 10% at $165,055. Mid-career professionals (3-5 years) usually earn around the median of $109,891.
Civil Engineers in Los Angeles, CA can see significant salary growth over their careers. Entry-level ($72,174) to median ($109,891) typically takes 3-5 years. Reaching the 90th percentile ($165,055) may take 10+ years and often requires specialized skills, certifications, or leadership experience. That's a potential growth of $92,881 over a career.
Data Source & Methodology
Official government statistics you can trust
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) Program
Visit Official BLS WebsiteData Year
2024
2 Years Old
Geographic Area
Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim
Metropolitan Statistical Area
Occupation Code
17-2051
SOC Classification
Sample Size
457
Employees Surveyed
How This Data Is Collected
The OEWS program produces employment and wage estimates annually for over 800 occupations across all metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas. Approximately 1.1 million establishments are surveyed over a three-year period, representing the most comprehensive wage data available for the U.S. labor market.
Note: Percentile wages represent actual reported wages and may differ from individual compensation packages that include benefits, bonuses, and equity.
Last updated: January 23, 2026
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Civil Engineer in Los Angeles, CA
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Median: $109,891/yr
How Los Angeles, CA Compares
vs National Average
$95,890
vs California Average
$92,735
Cost-of-Living Adjusted
$75,113
Cost of living in Los Angeles, CA is 46.3% above the national average.
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