How much does a Transportation Planner make?
Transportation Planners earn a solid salary, with the average yearly income standing at about $64,649. This salary can vary based on factors such as experience, location, and education. For instance, those in the top 10% earn more than $121,745 annually.
Individuals in the middle of the salary range, around the median, make about $70,298 per year. Those in the lower end of the scale, in the bottom 10%, earn around $36,000 annually. This range shows that there is potential for growth and higher earnings as a Transportation Planner gains more experience and skills in the field.
What are the highest paying cities for a Transportation Planner?
-
Anchorage, AK
Average Salary: $116,246
In Anchorage, a Transportation Planner can expect to work with state agencies to improve public transit systems. Companies like AECOM and CH2M provide great opportunities. Residents appreciate sustainable transport options.
Find Transportation Planner jobs in Anchorage, AK
-
San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $115,585
San Jose offers a dynamic environment for Transportation Planners, with a focus on tech company commutes. Working with firms like WRS and GHD, planners here design solutions to ease congestion and promote greener commutes.
Find Transportation Planner jobs in San Jose, CA
-
Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $105,212
Seattle is known for its innovative transport solutions. Planners here work closely with companies like Stantec and Jacobs. The city values sustainability, offering a rewarding place to enhance urban mobility.
Find Transportation Planner jobs in Seattle, WA
-
Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $104,796
Los Angeles faces unique traffic challenges. Planners in this city focus on easing congestion and improving public transport. With opportunities at firms like AECOM and AECOM, professionals can make a significant impact.
Find Transportation Planner jobs in Los Angeles, CA
-
San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $102,900
San Diego offers a mix of coastal and urban planning challenges. Planners here work to create efficient transport networks. Companies like WSP and AECOM offer diverse opportunities to advance in the field.
Find Transportation Planner jobs in San Diego, CA
-
Boston, MA
Average Salary: $97,662
Boston’s rich history and vibrant culture create a unique backdrop for planners. Working with firms like Kimley-Horn, professionals help develop comprehensive transit solutions that cater to a diverse population.
Find Transportation Planner jobs in Boston, MA
-
Washington, DC
Average Salary: $95,376
In Washington, D.C., a Transportation Planner focuses on creating efficient routes for a busy city. Working with AECOM and WSP, planners improve public transit systems that serve a dynamic population.
Find Transportation Planner jobs in Washington, DC
-
Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $89,404
Sacramento offers a growing market for transportation planners. Working with firms like AECOM and Jacobs, professionals here focus on improving regional transit and sustainability efforts.
Find Transportation Planner jobs in Sacramento, CA
-
Dallas, TX
Average Salary: $88,946
Dallas is a city in growth, with ample opportunities for transportation planners. Companies like CH2M and AECOM focus on expanding transit networks and improving traffic flow in a bustling environment.
Find Transportation Planner jobs in Dallas, TX
-
Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $87,822
Chicago’s extensive public transport system needs skilled planners. Working with firms like AECOM and HDR, professionals here contribute to making the city’s transit efficient and accessible.
Find Transportation Planner jobs in Chicago, IL
What are the best companies a Transportation Planner can work for?
-
Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority
Average Salary: $103,459
The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority provides a range of transportation options, from buses to rail, serving major cities including Los Angeles, Glendale, and Pasadena. Transportation Planners here play a key role in shaping the city's transit future.
-
City of Greenville
Average Salary: $99,923
The City of Greenville offers Transportation Planners the chance to work on enhancing the city's public transport systems. Opportunities span across Greenville and its surrounding areas, allowing for diverse transportation planning experiences.
-
State of Connecticut
Average Salary: $96,670
Working for the State of Connecticut offers Transportation Planners the chance to influence large-scale projects across major cities like Hartford and Stamford. Planners contribute to the development of sustainable transportation solutions.
-
AECOM
Average Salary: $94,616
AECOM is a global consulting firm that offers exciting opportunities for Transportation Planners. With projects in cities such as Chicago and Los Angeles, planners here work on a wide variety of transportation initiatives.
-
State of Michigan
Average Salary: $70,753
The State of Michigan provides diverse opportunities for Transportation Planners, with work spread across cities like Detroit and Grand Rapids. Planners here focus on improving the state's transportation infrastructure.
-
North Central Texas Council of Governments
Average Salary: $70,270
North Central Texas Council of Governments offers Transportation Planners the chance to work on projects in cities such as Fort Worth and Dallas. They focus on enhancing the region's transportation systems to meet future demands.
-
G&D Integrated
Average Salary: $39,500
G&D Integrated provides opportunities for Transportation Planners to work on smaller-scale projects across various locations. Though the salary is lower, it offers a chance to gain valuable experience in the field.
How to earn more as a Transportation Planner?
Increasing earnings as a Transportation Planner involves gaining relevant experience and education. Many transportation planners find that advancing their education can open up higher-paying opportunities. Earning a master’s degree in transportation planning or a related field can provide the knowledge and skills necessary for higher positions. Continuing education also allows planners to stay updated on the latest industry trends and technologies, making them more valuable to employers.
Specializing in a specific area of transportation planning can significantly boost earning potential. Planners who focus on areas like transit-oriented development, traffic engineering, or sustainable transportation often find higher demand and better pay. Specialization allows planners to develop expertise that is in high demand, making them more attractive to potential employers. Gaining certifications in specialized areas can also enhance job prospects and earnings.
Gaining experience and building a strong professional network can lead to higher salaries. Experienced planners who have worked on large-scale projects or in leadership roles often earn more. Networking with peers and industry professionals can lead to new opportunities and higher-paying jobs. Attending conferences and joining professional organizations can provide valuable connections and insights into the industry.
Seeking out opportunities in high-demand locations can also increase earnings. Urban areas with growing populations and expanding infrastructure projects often offer higher salaries for transportation planners. Planners who relocate to these areas can take advantage of the increased demand for their skills. Researching and applying for positions in these locations can lead to significant salary increases.
Pursuing roles in the private sector or government agencies can lead to higher pay. While public sector jobs often offer benefits and job security, private sector roles can provide higher salaries. Agencies that manage large transportation projects, such as state departments of transportation, often offer competitive pay. Evaluating job opportunities in both sectors can help planners make informed decisions about where to pursue higher earnings.
