Civil Engineer Salary in Arkansas
The median civil engineer salary in Arkansas is $75,550 per year, which is 16% below the national median of $89,940.
Civil Engineer Salary Overview in Arkansas (2026)
Arkansas ranks #48 out of 50 states for civil engineer compensation. Civil Engineer salaries in Arkansas are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $75,550 per year, civil engineers in Arkansas earn $14,390 less than the national median of $89,940.
A key advantage of working in Arkansas is its below-average cost of living (84% of the national index). This means the $75,550 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $89,940 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Arkansas is significant: civil engineers at the 10th percentile earn $50,736, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $116,424 — a $65,688 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Arkansas for this role is Fayetteville, where the median reaches $79,147.
Nationally, civil engineer employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for civil engineers across the country.
Civil Engineer Salary in Arkansas by Experience
In Arkansas, an entry-level civil engineer earns around $52,080, while experienced professionals earn up to $109,200 per year. The cost of living index in Arkansas is 84% of the national average.
Build Wealth on Your Income
With a $75,550 income, financial advisors recommend investing 15–20% annually. Start building a diversified portfolio with as little as $10.
See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Arkansas
| Percentile | AR Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $50,736 |
| 25th Percentile | $61,488 |
| Median (50th) | $75,550 |
| 75th Percentile | $95,760 |
| 90th Percentile | $116,424 |
Civil Engineer Salary by City in Arkansas
The largest employment areas for civil engineers in Arkansas include Little Rock, Fort Smith, Fayetteville, and Springdale. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Civil Engineer in Arkansas
Education
Most civil engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Arkansas has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Arkansas
Nationally, civil engineer employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Arkansas's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Civil Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $33,650 over your career trajectory.
Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →Open to Civil Engineer Roles in Arkansas?
Get matched with recruiters hiring civil engineers in Arkansas at competitive salaries.
Or browse positions directly: