Civil Engineers Salary in Riverside, CA

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA

Median annual salary $109,250 +9.7% vs national
Median hourly $52.52
10th percentile $75,980
90th percentile $168,590
Employed locally 3,620
National median $99,590

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Civil Engineers
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Riverside, CA
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    In Riverside, CA, civil engineers earn a median annual salary of $109,250, which is approximately $9,660 higher than the national median of $99,590. This places them well above the local area's median household income of $86,031, highlighting the relatively lucrative nature of this occupation in comparison to other professions within the region. The disparity between civil engineers' earnings and the typical household income underscores their financial advantage in the local economy. With a local unemployment rate of 5.20%, civil engineers are part of a specialized workforce that enjoys both competitive compensation and relative job security, reflecting the demand for their expertise in Riverside.

    When analyzing the salary distribution among civil engineers in Riverside, entry-level positions typically align with the 10th percentile at $75,980 annually, while experienced professionals often earn near the 90th percentile, reaching up to $168,590. The significant difference between these figures—over $92,600—is primarily driven by factors such as years of experience, level of education, and specific skill sets. As civil engineers progress in their careers, they tend to secure higher-paying roles that require more advanced knowledge and responsibility, leading to a substantial increase in earnings compared to entry-level positions. This salary progression reflects the industry's valuation of expertise and accumulated professional achievements.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $75,980
    25th
    $84,550
    50th (median)
    $109,250
    75th
    $138,790
    90th
    $168,590

    Riverside economic context

    Unemployment rate 5.20% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $86,031 2023 • Census ACS
    Civil Engineers salary vs area income 127% Median Civil Engineers salary is 27% above the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Civil Engineers make per hour in Riverside?

    The median hourly wage for Civil Engineers in Riverside, CA is $52.52, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $81.16 or more per hour.

    Is Riverside above or below average for Civil Engineers salaries?

    The median Civil Engineers salary in Riverside, CA is 9.7% above 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 Riverside?

    Entry-level Civil Engineers (10th percentile) earn around $75,980 per year in Riverside, CA. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $84,550.