Civil Engineer Salary in Rhode Island
The median civil engineer salary in Rhode Island is $94,437 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median of $89,940.
Civil Engineer Salary Overview in Rhode Island (2026)
Rhode Island ranks #13 out of 50 states for civil engineer compensation. Rhode Island falls in the middle of the pack for civil engineer pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $94,437 per year, civil engineers in Rhode Island earn $4,497 more than the national median of $89,940.
Rhode Island's cost of living is near the national average at 105%, meaning civil engineer salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Rhode Island is significant: civil engineers at the 10th percentile earn $63,420, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $145,530 — a $82,110 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Rhode Island for this role is Providence, where the median reaches $97,135.
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 Rhode Island by Experience
In Rhode Island, an entry-level civil engineer earns around $65,100, while experienced professionals earn up to $136,500 per year. The cost of living index in Rhode Island is 105% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Rhode Island
| Percentile | RI Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $63,420 |
| 25th Percentile | $76,860 |
| Median (50th) | $94,437 |
| 75th Percentile | $119,700 |
| 90th Percentile | $145,530 |
Civil Engineer Salary by City in Rhode Island
The largest employment areas for civil engineers in Rhode Island include Providence, Warwick, Cranston, and Pawtucket. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Civil Engineer in Rhode Island
Education
Most civil engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Rhode Island has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Rhode Island
Nationally, civil engineer employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Rhode Island's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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Data shows Civil Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $42,063 over your career trajectory.
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