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How much does a Urban Planner make?

The average salary for a Urban Planner is $83,752 per year in the US.

Urban planners shape the cities and towns where we live and work. They help create spaces that are safe, efficient, and enjoyable. Their work often includes designing parks, managing traffic, and ensuring buildings meet safety rules. It’s a job that can make a big difference in people’s daily lives.

The salary for urban planners varies based on experience and location. Starting planners can expect to earn around $37,000 each year. With more experience, the salary can grow to $80,000 or more. The average yearly salary for urban planners is about $84,000. This number reflects the pay for those with a mix of experience levels. Planners with advanced degrees or in high-demand areas often earn even more.

Here is a look at the salary range for urban planners:

  • Bottom 10%: Earn less than $37,000
  • Middle 50%: Earn between $59,000 and $80,000
  • Top 10%: Earn more than $101,000

This range shows that with time and dedication, urban planners can have rewarding and well-paying careers.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Urban Planner?

Urban Planners can look forward to higher pay in cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco. Both cities offer average annual salaries of over $110,000. Higher salaries in these places reflect the growing need for effective urban planning. Other cities also provide good pay for Urban Planners. Baltimore, Denver, and Atlanta offer average salaries above $89,000. These locations show that cities with strong economies value urban planning.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Urban Planner jobs, highlighting Los Angeles, CA with the highest at $117,951 and Omaha, NE with the lowest at $63,632.
  1. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $117,951
    In Los Angeles, a city known for its sprawling urban landscape, professionals shape the future of neighborhoods and public spaces. With key firms like AECOM and AECOM, planners focus on sustainability and urban design.
    Find Urban Planner jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  2. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $112,847
    San Francisco offers a dynamic environment for those passionate about city planning. Here, planners collaborate with tech companies and local governments to address urban challenges. Firms like Gensler and AECOM provide ample opportunities for impactful work.
    Find Urban Planner jobs in San Francisco, CA


  3. Baltimore, MD
    Average Salary: $98,957
    Baltimore's urban planning scene is vibrant, with a focus on revitalization and community development. Planners here work closely with organizations such as the Baltimore Development Corporation to improve urban areas.
    Find Urban Planner jobs in Baltimore, MD


  4. Denver, CO
    Average Salary: $89,128
    Denver provides a unique blend of urban and natural environments. Planners in this city work on projects that enhance both the urban landscape and natural surroundings. Companies like URS Corporation and AECOM offer exciting opportunities.
    Find Urban Planner jobs in Denver, CO


  5. Atlanta, GA
    Average Salary: $67,045
    Atlanta's growth means there is a high demand for skilled planners. Here, professionals focus on managing rapid urbanization and improving infrastructure. Key employers include AECOM and URS Corporation.
    Find Urban Planner jobs in Atlanta, GA


  6. Omaha, NE
    Average Salary: $63,632
    Omaha's urban planners contribute to the city's development in a more relaxed setting. They work on enhancing community spaces and promoting sustainable growth. Local firms provide a supportive environment for career advancement.
    Find Urban Planner jobs in Omaha, NE

What are the best companies a Urban Planner can work for?

Baxter & Woodman and CSG Consultants, Inc. offer strong pay for urban planners. These companies value their planners, paying well above the national average. Salaries at Baxter & Woodman can reach up to $91,548, while CSG Consultants, Inc. offers about $87,863. Both companies provide urban planners with a competitive salary, along with good benefits and career growth opportunities. Choosing either of these companies can lead to a rewarding career in urban planning.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Urban Planner jobs, highlighting Baxter & Woodman with the highest at $91,548 and CSG Consultants, Inc. with the lowest at $87,863.
  1. Baxter & Woodman
    Average Salary: $91,548
    Baxter & Woodman offers a wide range of services to clients across the country. Urban Planners work on projects in cities like New York, San Francisco, and Chicago. They help design sustainable and efficient urban spaces. The company values creativity and innovation in its projects.


  2. CSG Consultants, Inc.
    Average Salary: $87,863
    CSG Consultants, Inc. provides planning and engineering services. Urban Planners at CSG work on important projects in cities like Los Angeles, Boston, and Seattle. The company focuses on community engagement and public involvement in urban planning. CSG encourages professional growth and learning among its employees.

How to earn more as a Urban Planner?

Urban planners play a key role in developing communities and improving urban areas. To earn more in this profession, consider these factors that can increase your earning potential. Gaining more experience and education often leads to higher salaries. Skilled planners with advanced degrees or specialized certifications can command higher pay.

Networking and building relationships within the industry can open up higher-paying opportunities. Attending conferences and joining professional organizations can connect you with potential employers and peers. Effective communication and project management skills can also help urban planners earn more. These skills are vital for negotiating better salaries and securing promotions.

The ability to work on larger and more complex projects can lead to higher earnings. Planners who demonstrate their ability to manage significant projects and deliver successful outcomes may receive higher compensation. Lastly, working in urban areas with higher living costs can result in higher salaries. These areas often have greater demand for skilled urban planners.

An organized approach to career development can help urban planners earn more. Here are five key factors to consider:

  1. Education and Certifications: Gaining advanced degrees and certifications can increase earning potential.
  2. Experience: More experience leads to higher salaries and better positions.
  3. Networking: Building professional connections can lead to higher-paying opportunities.
  4. Skills: Strong communication and project management skills can help secure better pay.
  5. Project Complexity: Handling larger and more complex projects can result in higher earnings.

Currently 41 Urban Planner job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Urban Planner in the US?

Learn what a Urban Planner does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Urban Planner today.
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Urban Planner
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