Entry Level (10th pct.)
$55,000
0–2 years experience
25th Percentile
$69,000
Below average earner
Median (50th pct.)
$89,000
Typical earner
75th Percentile
$111,000
Above average earner
Top Earner (90th pct.)
$137,000
5+ years experience

Civil Engineer Salary Breakdown — Charlotte, NC

The table below shows how Civil Engineer salaries in Charlotte distribute across experience levels and pay percentiles in 2026.

PercentileAnnual SalaryMonthlyHourly (est.)Profile
10th$55,000$4,583$26Entry-level, new graduate
25th$69,000$5,750$331–3 years experience
Median$89,000$7,417$43Mid-career professional
75th$111,000$9,250$53Experienced professional
90th$137,000$11,417$66Senior / specialist

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), adjusted for Charlotte regional cost of living. Data as of 2026.

Visual Salary Distribution

10th pct.
$55,000
25th pct.
$69,000
Median
$89,000
75th pct.
$111,000
90th pct.
$137,000

What Affects Civil Engineer Salaries in Charlotte?

  • Experience: Entry-level professionals earn significantly less than their senior counterparts. In Charlotte, the gap between the 10th and 90th percentile is $82,000.
  • Industry:Civil Engineers working in high-demand industries such as technology, finance, and healthcare often command salaries above the median.
  • Education & Certifications: Advanced degrees and relevant professional certifications can move your salary into the upper quartile.
  • Company size: Larger organizations typically offer higher compensation packages, including bonuses and equity.
  • Location within Charlotte: Employers in downtown/central business districts or tech corridors often pay more than suburban offices.

🚀 Find Civil Engineer Jobs in Charlotte, NC

Ready to put this salary data to work? Browse open Civil Engineer positions in Charlotte right now on the top job boards.

â„šī¸ These links may include affiliate tracking. Using them helps support SalaryInsights at no cost to you.