Civil Engineer Salary in Ohio
The median civil engineer salary in Ohio is $80,946 per year, which is 10% below the national median of $89,940.
Civil Engineer Salary Overview in Ohio (2026)
Ohio ranks #38 out of 50 states for civil engineer compensation. Civil Engineer salaries in Ohio are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $80,946 per year, civil engineers in Ohio earn $8,994 less than the national median of $89,940.
A key advantage of working in Ohio is its below-average cost of living (90% of the national index). This means the $80,946 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $89,940 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Ohio is significant: civil engineers at the 10th percentile earn $54,360, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $124,740 — a $70,380 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Ohio for this role is Columbus, where the median reaches $85,443.
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 Ohio by Experience
In Ohio, an entry-level civil engineer earns around $55,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $117,000 per year. The cost of living index in Ohio is 90% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Ohio
| Percentile | OH Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $54,360 |
| 25th Percentile | $65,880 |
| Median (50th) | $80,946 |
| 75th Percentile | $102,600 |
| 90th Percentile | $124,740 |
Civil Engineer Salary by City in Ohio
The largest employment areas for civil engineers in Ohio include Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati, and Toledo. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Civil Engineer in Ohio
Education
Most civil engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Ohio has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Ohio
Nationally, civil engineer employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Ohio'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 $36,054 over your career trajectory.
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