Civil Engineer Salary in New Jersey
The median civil engineer salary in New Jersey is $103,431 per year, which is 15.0% above the national median of $89,940.
Civil Engineer Salary Overview in New Jersey (2026)
New Jersey ranks #6 out of 50 states for civil engineer compensation. This places New Jersey in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for civil engineers seeking high pay. At $103,431 per year, civil engineers in New Jersey earn $13,491 more than the national median of $89,940.
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 $103,431 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $89,940.
The salary spread in New Jersey is significant: civil engineers at the 10th percentile earn $69,460, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $159,390 — a $89,930 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 $115,123.
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 New Jersey by Experience
In New Jersey, an entry-level civil engineer earns around $71,300, while experienced professionals earn up to $149,500 per year. The cost of living index in New Jersey is 115% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in New Jersey
| Percentile | NJ Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $69,460 |
| 25th Percentile | $84,180 |
| Median (50th) | $103,431 |
| 75th Percentile | $131,100 |
| 90th Percentile | $159,390 |
Civil Engineer Salary by City in New Jersey
The largest employment areas for civil 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 Civil Engineer in New Jersey
Education
Most civil engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. New Jersey has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in New Jersey
Nationally, civil engineer employment is projected to grow 5% 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 Civil Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $46,069 over your career trajectory.
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