Civil Engineer Salary in Portland, Oregon
The median civil engineer salary in Portland, OR is $106,129 per year, which is 18.0% above the national median and 7.3% above the Oregon state average.
Civil Engineer Pay in Portland: What to Expect (2026)
Portland offers a median civil engineer salary of $106,129, which is $7,195 above the Oregon state average of $98,934. Compared to the national median of $89,940, Portland pays above average for this role.
However, Portland's cost of living index is 118%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $106,129 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $89,940. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Portland should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for civil engineers in Portland spans from $71,272 at the 10th percentile to $163,548 at the 90th percentile — a $92,276 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $73,160, while senior civil engineers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $153,400. As a major metro area with a population of 652,503, Portland typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Civil Engineer Salary in Portland by Experience
In Portland, an entry-level civil engineer earns around $73,160, while experienced professionals earn up to $153,400 per year. The local cost of living index is 118% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Portland, OR
| Percentile | Portland |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $71,272 |
| 25th Percentile | $86,376 |
| Median (50th) | $106,129 |
| 75th Percentile | $134,520 |
| 90th Percentile | $163,548 |
Civil Engineer Salary in Other Oregon Cities
How to Become a Civil Engineer in Portland
Education
Most civil engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Portland and the surrounding Oregon area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, civil engineer employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Portland may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Civil Engineer Jobs in Portland
Browse open civil engineer positions in Portland, OR: