Civil Engineer Salary in Los Angeles, CA
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Engineering · COL Index: 166
$105,290
Median Salary
$116,920
Mean Salary
$63,428
COL-Adjusted
16,390
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $73,850 | $44,488 |
| 25th Percentile | $83,020 | $50,012 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $105,290 | $63,428 |
| 75th Percentile | $134,120 | $80,795 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $170,140 | $102,494 |
What Drives the Range
The $96,290 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Civil Engineer positions in Los Angeles, CA reflects several factors. Entry-level professionals and those in smaller organizations typically fall in the lower quartiles, while senior specialists, those with in-demand certifications, and employees at large enterprises command salaries in the upper percentiles.
Los Angeles, CA's cost-of-living index of 166 means that a $105,290 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $63,428 in an average-cost U.S. city. Despite the higher cost of living, this metro area offers a deep talent pool and typically higher total compensation when including equity and bonuses.