Civil Engineer Salary in San Jose, CA
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Engineering · COL Index: 195.8
$129,260
Median Salary
$138,030
Mean Salary
$66,016
COL-Adjusted
3,180
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $83,620 | $42,707 |
| 25th Percentile | $102,660 | $52,431 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $129,260 | $66,016 |
| 75th Percentile | $166,360 | $84,964 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $199,560 | $101,920 |
What Drives the Range
The $115,940 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Civil Engineer positions in San Jose, 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.
San Jose, CA's cost-of-living index of 195.8 means that a $129,260 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $66,016 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.