Transportation Planner Salaries

1. San Francisco, CA
   Average Salary: $134,186
   Professionals in San Francisco work on projects to enhance public transit and reduce congestion. Major firms like AECOM and HNTB Corporation often hire planners. Collaborative environments with tech and government agencies make for dynamic work.
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2. San Jose, CA
   Average Salary: $114,086
   San Jose offers exciting opportunities for those who plan transportation. The city values innovation, with companies like Google and Uber seeking skilled planners. Projects often focus on improving public transit and managing traffic efficiently.
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3. Anchorage, AK
   Average Salary: $108,196
   In Anchorage, planners tackle unique challenges due to the city's geography. They work with organizations like the Municipality of Anchorage to improve public transportation. Projects often involve creating solutions for harsh weather and remote locations.
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4. Seattle, WA
   Average Salary: $105,975
   Seattle is a hub for transportation planners who work with companies like Amazon and King County Metro. They focus on sustainable transport solutions and urban development. Seattle's emphasis on public transit offers many innovative projects.
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5. Los Angeles, CA
   Average Salary: $105,003
   Los Angeles provides diverse opportunities in transportation planning. Planners work with Metro and other transit authorities to ease traffic congestion. The city's size and complexity make it a great place for ambitious projects.
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6. Philadelphia, PA
   Average Salary: $104,359
   In Philadelphia, planners collaborate with SEPTA and the city government to improve public transit. They focus on projects that enhance commuter rail and bus services. The city values planners who can create efficient, accessible transport solutions.
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7. San Diego, CA
   Average Salary: $102,900
   San Diego offers vibrant opportunities for transportation planners. They work on projects to enhance the city’s renowned trolley system and manage traffic. Companies like the San Diego Association of Governments provide key opportunities.
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8. Boston, MA
   Average Salary: $96,551
   Boston planners work with the MBTA and local government to improve public transit. They focus on projects that enhance the city's famous subway system. The city’s historic charm adds a unique flavor to urban transport planning.
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9. Washington, DC
   Average Salary: $93,204
   In Washington, DC, planners collaborate with agencies like the Department of Transportation. They work on projects to enhance the city’s metro and bus services. The capital’s political nature offers dynamic and impactful opportunities.
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10. Sacramento, CA
    Average Salary: $90,556
    Sacramento offers diverse opportunities for transportation planners. They work with the California Department of Transportation and local transit authorities. Projects often focus on creating efficient public transport and managing regional traffic.
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1. CDM Smith
   Average Salary: $129,711
   CDM Smith is a global consulting firm that works on transportation projects worldwide. They offer exciting opportunities for Transportation Planners. CDM Smith has offices in many major cities, including Washington D.C., Boston, and Los Angeles.
   

   
   

2. Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority
   Average Salary: $104,457
   The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (LACMTA) provides transit services to millions of people in Los Angeles County. They value innovative transportation solutions. They operate in Los Angeles and surrounding areas.
   

   
   

3. State of Connecticut
   Average Salary: $94,734
   The State of Connecticut employs Transportation Planners to improve public transit and roadways. They focus on sustainability and efficiency. The state operates throughout Connecticut.
   

   
   

4. AECOM
   Average Salary: $94,290
   AECOM is a leading global consultancy for transportation infrastructure. They work on major projects in cities and rural areas. AECOM has offices across the United States and the world.
   

   
   

5. State of Michigan
   Average Salary: $69,905
   The State of Michigan offers numerous positions for Transportation Planners. They focus on improving roads and public transit. The state operates throughout Michigan.
   

   
   

6. North Central Texas Council of Governments
   Average Salary: $67,268
   The North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG) works to improve transportation in the region. They offer a variety of opportunities for Transportation Planners. They operate in the North Central Texas area.
   

   
   

7. BlueLinx
   Average Salary: $65,000
   BlueLinx provides building materials and services across North America. They need Transportation Planners to manage logistics. They operate in multiple locations throughout the U.S.
   

   
   

8. G&D Integrated
   Average Salary: $39,500
   G&D Integrated focuses on transportation and infrastructure consulting. They offer entry-level positions for Transportation Planners. They operate in several states, including California and Florida.
   

Transportation Planners can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. First, gaining specialized certifications can enhance skills and knowledge. For example, obtaining a Professional Engineer (PE) license or a Certified Transportation Planner (CTP) certification can lead to higher pay. These credentials show a commitment to the profession and can make a candidate more attractive to employers.

Another way to earn more is to pursue advanced degrees. A master's degree in transportation planning, civil engineering, or urban planning can open up higher-paying positions. Employers often value the extra education and experience that a master's degree brings. Experience also plays a crucial role. Working in the field for several years allows planners to develop a deep understanding of transportation systems and make them more effective in their roles. This experience can lead to promotions and salary increases. Networking and building relationships within the industry can also lead to higher-paying opportunities. Attending conferences and joining professional organizations can provide chances to connect with other professionals and learn about job openings. Lastly, gaining expertise in high-demand areas like public transit, sustainable transportation, or traffic management can make a Transportation Planner more valuable to employers and command higher salaries.

Here are five factors to consider for increasing earnings:

1. Obtain specialized certifications.
2. Pursue advanced degrees.
3. Gain experience and expertise.
4. Network within the industry.
5. Develop skills in high-demand areas.