How much does a Professional Land Surveyor make?
Professional land surveyors have a rewarding career in a growing field. They measure and map land and other physical features. Their work is vital for construction, urban planning, and real estate projects. This profession offers a stable income with potential for growth.
The average yearly salary for a land surveyor stands at approximately $92,635. Salaries range from around $40,000 for entry-level positions to over $160,000 for those with extensive experience and specialized skills. Surveyors often earn more as they gain experience and take on more complex projects. Various factors, such as location and the size of the employer, also affect salary levels. Surveyors in urban areas or working for large firms may earn higher salaries. This data highlights the financial rewards that come with dedication and skill in the field.
What are the highest paying cities for a Professional Land Surveyor?

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Fresno, CA
Average Salary: $124,964
In Fresno, working as a land surveyor offers opportunities in agriculture and urban development. Companies like AECOM and DLR Group provide projects that need precise land measurements.
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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $114,448
Modesto's land surveyors focus on both residential and commercial projects. They collaborate with firms such as Turner Construction to ensure accurate land mapping.
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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $113,040
Phoenix provides a bustling environment for land surveyors. Working with companies like W.T. Waggoner & Associates, professionals here handle diverse projects from desert landscapes to urban developments.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $112,913
Sacramento's land surveyors contribute to both state projects and private developments. They work with companies like Clark & Associates to manage land surveys for large-scale infrastructure.
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Dallas, TX
Average Salary: $111,958
In Dallas, land surveyors are in demand for urban expansion and real estate. Firms such as URS Corporation provide many opportunities for these professionals.
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Virginia Beach, VA
Average Salary: $110,565
Virginia Beach offers land surveyors the chance to work on coastal and inland projects. They often collaborate with companies like C&S Surveying to ensure accurate land documentation.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $109,226
San Diego's land surveyors handle a mix of residential, commercial, and coastal projects. They work with firms such as J.E. Portela & Associates to manage land surveys in a scenic environment.
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Winston-Salem, NC
Average Salary: $107,654
Winston-Salem's land surveyors work on both rural and urban developments. They collaborate with companies like The Land Surveyors Group to ensure precise land measurements.
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Lexington, KY
Average Salary: $106,714
Lexington offers land surveyors a mix of agricultural and urban projects. They often work with firms like R.J. Corman to ensure accurate land surveys.
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Spokane, WA
Average Salary: $105,488
In Spokane, land surveyors focus on both urban and natural land. They collaborate with companies like S.R. Smith to manage land surveys in a diverse environment.
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What are the best companies a Professional Land Surveyor can work for?

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Willdan
Average Salary: $145,000
Willdan offers exciting opportunities for Professional Land Surveyors. They work on projects throughout California, with a focus on transportation and civil infrastructure. The company values teamwork and professional growth.
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Arcadis
Average Salary: $128,175
Arcadis provides a dynamic environment for land surveyors. They operate in over 70 countries, focusing on sustainable design and consulting. They offer growth opportunities and a chance to work on diverse projects.
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Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson
Average Salary: $114,700
Join Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson for rewarding work as a land surveyor. They work on large-scale infrastructure projects in the U.S. and internationally. The company emphasizes innovation and safety.
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DAVRON LLC
Average Salary: $107,987
DAVRON LLC hires land surveyors for projects across the United States. They specialize in civil engineering and infrastructure. They provide a collaborative work environment with opportunities for professional development.
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Gessner Engineering
Average Salary: $107,500
Gessner Engineering offers rewarding roles for land surveyors. They focus on water resource projects throughout the West. Their work involves detailed mapping and analysis. The company values teamwork and quality work.
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Stantec
Average Salary: $99,615
Stantec provides opportunities for land surveyors across various sectors. They work on projects in transportation, water, and environment. They offer a supportive environment with chances for career advancement.
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W3Global, Inc
Average Salary: $90,409
W3Global, Inc, offers roles for land surveyors with a focus on geospatial technology. They work on projects in the U.S. and internationally. The company values technical expertise and problem-solving skills.
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RQ Construction
Average Salary: $90,000
RQ Construction provides land surveyor positions with a focus on construction projects. They operate across the U.S. with a focus on quality and safety. They offer a supportive work environment.
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ATLAS SURVEYING INC
Average Salary: $87,609
ATLAS SURVEYING INC offers rewarding roles for land surveyors. They work on various projects including construction and engineering. They operate in several states across the U.S. The company values teamwork and precision.
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State of Illinois
Average Salary: $78,572
The State of Illinois offers land surveyor positions with a focus on public sector projects. They operate across the state with a focus on infrastructure and public safety. They offer a stable work environment with benefits.
How to earn more as a Professional Land Surveyor?
Becoming a professional land surveyor can be very rewarding both in job satisfaction and salary. To maximize your earnings in this field, it helps to focus on key areas of development and strategy. Developing skills and gaining experience in high-demand areas can lead to higher-paying opportunities.
Consider these factors to increase your earning potential. First, specialize in a niche area of land surveying. Expertise in sectors like construction, environmental studies, or urban planning often command higher pay. Second, gain certifications that are highly regarded in the industry, such as the Professional Land Surveyor (PLS) title. Certifications can set you apart and justify higher pay rates. Third, seek out opportunities for professional development. Continuous learning keeps your skills sharp and can open doors to better-paying roles. Fourth, build a strong network within the industry. Connections can lead to job referrals and collaborations that enhance earning opportunities. Finally, consider working with multiple clients to diversify your income sources. A varied client base can lead to more stable and higher overall earnings.
Incorporating these factors into your career plan can help boost your earnings as a land surveyor. Specialization, certifications, continuous learning, networking, and client diversification all play crucial roles in increasing your earning potential.
- Specialize in a niche area.
- Gain relevant certifications.
- Seek professional development.
- Build a strong network.
- Work with multiple clients.



