Civil Engineer Salary in Louisiana
The median civil engineer salary in Louisiana is $81,845 per year, which is 9% below the national median of $89,940.
Civil Engineer Salary Overview in Louisiana (2026)
Louisiana ranks #34 out of 50 states for civil engineer compensation. Civil Engineer salaries in Louisiana are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $81,845 per year, civil engineers in Louisiana earn $8,095 less than the national median of $89,940.
A key advantage of working in Louisiana is its below-average cost of living (91% of the national index). This means the $81,845 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $89,940 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Louisiana is significant: civil engineers at the 10th percentile earn $54,964, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $126,126 — a $71,162 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Louisiana for this role is New Orleans, where the median reaches $88,141.
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 Louisiana by Experience
In Louisiana, an entry-level civil engineer earns around $56,420, while experienced professionals earn up to $118,300 per year. The cost of living index in Louisiana is 91% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Louisiana
| Percentile | LA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $54,964 |
| 25th Percentile | $66,612 |
| Median (50th) | $81,845 |
| 75th Percentile | $103,740 |
| 90th Percentile | $126,126 |
Civil Engineer Salary by City in Louisiana
The largest employment areas for civil engineers in Louisiana include New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Shreveport, and Lafayette. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Civil Engineer in Louisiana
Education
Most civil engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Louisiana has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Louisiana
Nationally, civil engineer employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Louisiana'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 $36,455 over your career trajectory.
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