Entertainment, tech, aerospace — sprawling and high-paying. Here's how Civil Engineers in Los Angeles get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Los Angeles metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $99,900 | $76,000 | $129,900 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $124,200 | $94,400 | $161,500 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $142,800 | $108,600 | $185,700 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $171,300 | $130,300 | $222,800 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $194,200 | $147,600 | $252,500 |
Highest-paying metros for Civil Engineers — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Los Angeles metro economy.
The average Civil Engineer salary in the Los Angeles metro is $142,800 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $108,600 to $185,700 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $235,700 or more.
Yes — Los Angeles pays +0% relative to the California state median for Civil Engineers. Major metros typically concentrate higher-paying employers and command a wage premium over rural and small-city areas in the same state.
Los Angeles vs. national: +32%. That puts Los Angeles among the stronger US markets for Civil Engineers — though cost of living in Los Angeles is also typically elevated.
In Los Angeles, the median Civil Engineer salary of $142,800 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Civil Engineers in Los Angeles start around $99,900, while seniors (10+ years) reach $171,300 or more.
Metro medians are useful benchmarks — but your exact number depends on your experience, education, and the specific employer. Run the free calculator for a personalized read.
Get my personal salary report →