Engineering New Jersey (NJ) Rank #6 of 50

Aerospace Engineer Salary in New Jersey

The median aerospace engineer salary in New Jersey is $145,912 per year, which is 15.0% above the national median of $126,880.

Median Salary
$145,912
vs National
+$19,032
State Rank
#6 of 50
Cost of Living
115%

Aerospace Engineer Salary Overview in New Jersey (2026)

New Jersey ranks #6 out of 50 states for aerospace engineer compensation. This places New Jersey in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for aerospace engineers seeking high pay. At $145,912 per year, aerospace engineers in New Jersey earn $19,032 more than the national median of $126,880.

It's worth noting that New Jersey's cost of living is 115% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $145,912 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $126,880.

The salary spread in New Jersey is significant: aerospace engineers at the 10th percentile earn $89,700, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $220,800 — a $131,100 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in New Jersey for this role is Jersey City, where the median reaches $162,406.

Nationally, aerospace engineer employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for aerospace engineers across the country.

Aerospace Engineer Salary in New Jersey by Experience

In New Jersey, an entry-level aerospace engineer earns around $92,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $212,750 per year. The cost of living index in New Jersey is 115% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$92,000
+$12,000 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$147,200
+$19,200 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$212,750
+$27,750 vs national

You May Qualify for Premium Rewards

Professionals earning $145,912+ often qualify for premium rewards cards with $500+ signup bonuses and 2–5% cashback on every purchase.

View Offers You Qualify For →

Salary Percentiles in New Jersey

Percentile NJ Salary
10th Percentile $89,700
25th Percentile $115,000
Median (50th) $145,912
75th Percentile $184,000
90th Percentile $220,800

Aerospace Engineer Salary by City in New Jersey

The largest employment areas for aerospace engineers in New Jersey include Newark, Jersey City, Paterson, and Elizabeth. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Aerospace Engineer in New Jersey

Education

Most aerospace engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. New Jersey has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

AerodynamicsCATIA/CADStructural AnalysisMATLABPropulsion SystemsFEA

Job Outlook in New Jersey

Nationally, aerospace engineer employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). New Jersey's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay

Data shows Aerospace Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $66,838 over your career trajectory.

Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →

Open to Aerospace Engineer Roles in New Jersey?

Get matched with recruiters hiring aerospace engineers in New Jersey at competitive salaries.

Or browse positions directly:

Frequently Asked Questions: Aerospace Engineer Salary in New Jersey

How much does a Aerospace Engineer make in New Jersey? ▼
The median aerospace engineer salary in New Jersey is $145,912 per year, which is 15.0% above the national median of $126,880. Salaries range from $89,700 (10th percentile) to $220,800 (90th percentile).
How much does a Aerospace Engineer make per hour in New Jersey? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $145,912, a aerospace engineer in New Jersey earns approximately $70 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is New Jersey a good state for aerospace engineers? ▼
New Jersey ranks #6 out of 50 states for aerospace engineer pay. The cost of living index is 115% of the national average. Entry-level aerospace engineers earn $92,000, while senior professionals earn $212,750.
How does New Jersey compare to other states for aerospace engineer salary? ▼
The highest paying state for aerospace engineers is Hawaii at $215,696. New Jersey's median of $145,912 ranks #6 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Alaska ($157,331) and New York ($154,794).
What is the entry-level aerospace engineer salary in New Jersey? ▼
An entry-level aerospace engineer in New Jersey earns approximately $92,000 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $147,200. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $212,750.
What city in New Jersey pays aerospace engineers the most? ▼
Jersey City is the highest paying city in New Jersey for aerospace engineers, with a median salary of $162,406. Other cities include Newark and Paterson.