Civil Engineers Salary in Detroit, MI

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Detroit-Warren-Dearborn, MI

Median annual salary $85,690 -14% vs national
Median hourly $41.20
10th percentile $64,630
90th percentile $130,310
Employed locally 4,080
National median $99,590

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Civil Engineers
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    In Detroit, MI, civil engineers earn a median annual salary of $85,690, which is below the national median for this occupation at $99,590. This figure positions civil engineering earnings above the area's median household income of $75,123, indicating that civil engineers typically have a higher earning potential compared to many local workers. The gap between the typical civil engineer’s salary and the broader community's average income highlights the specialized skills and education required for this profession, as well as its relative value in the job market within Detroit.

    Entry-level civil engineers in Detroit earn around $64,630 annually, which is at the 10th percentile, while those with more experience can reach salaries up to $130,310, representing the 90th percentile. This substantial salary range from $64,630 to $105,920 (75th percentile) and beyond reflects differences in responsibility levels, project complexity, and individual expertise. Factors driving these earnings variations include years of experience, specialization within civil engineering, additional certifications or advanced degrees, and performance on complex projects that demand a higher level of skill and leadership.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $64,630
    25th
    $75,910
    50th (median)
    $85,690
    75th
    $105,920
    90th
    $130,310

    Detroit economic context

    Unemployment rate 4.50% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $75,123 2023 • Census ACS
    Civil Engineers salary vs area income 114% Median Civil Engineers salary is 14% above the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Civil Engineers make per hour in Detroit?

    The median hourly wage for Civil Engineers in Detroit, MI is $41.20, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $62.35 or more per hour.

    Is Detroit above or below average for Civil Engineers salaries?

    The median Civil Engineers salary in Detroit, MI is 14% below the national median of $99,590. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Civil Engineers in Detroit?

    Entry-level Civil Engineers (10th percentile) earn around $64,630 per year in Detroit, MI. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $75,910.