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How much does a Urban Planner make?

The average salary for a Urban Planner is $82,435 per year in the US.

Urban planners help create and manage the design of cities and towns. They work on projects that improve the quality of life for people living in these areas. The average yearly salary for an urban planner is around $82,435. This means that most urban planners earn somewhere near this amount each year.


Some urban planners may earn more or less than this average. The salary can change based on factors like experience, location, and the specific job role. For example, those in larger cities or with more years of experience might earn more. Here is a look at the salary range for urban planners:

  • Bottom 10% earn $37,000 or less.
  • Next 10% earn between $37,000 and $47,020.
  • Next 10% earn between $47,020 and $57,039.
  • Next 10% earn between $57,039 and $67,059.
  • Next 10% earn between $67,059 and $77,079.
  • Next 10% earn between $77,079 and $87,098.
  • Next 10% earn between $87,098 and $97,118.
  • Next 10% earn between $97,118 and $107,137.
  • Next 10% earn between $107,137 and $117,157.
  • Top 10% earn $117,157 or more.
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What are the highest paying cities for a Urban Planner?

Urban planners can find top-tier salaries in major cities. Los Angeles, CA, and San Francisco, CA, lead the way, offering the highest average wages. Cities like Baltimore, MD, Denver, CO, Chicago, IL, Omaha, NE, and Atlanta, GA also provide strong earning potential for urban planners.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Urban Planner jobs, highlighting Los Angeles, CA with the highest at $117,951 and Atlanta, GA with the lowest at $65,196.
  1. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $117,951
    In Los Angeles, city planners focus on sustainable development and managing urban growth. Companies like AECOM and HNTB Corporation offer opportunities to work on large-scale projects that impact the city's future.
    Find Urban Planner jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  2. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $112,847
    San Francisco has a strong emphasis on green initiatives. Urban planners here work with organizations like Gensler and Skidmore, Owings & Merrill to create innovative designs that promote eco-friendly urban living.
    Find Urban Planner jobs in San Francisco, CA


  3. Baltimore, MD
    Average Salary: $98,141
    Baltimore offers planners the chance to revitalize urban areas and improve community spaces. Planners work with firms like WSP and Kimley-Horn to tackle housing and infrastructure projects that benefit the city.
    Find Urban Planner jobs in Baltimore, MD


  4. Denver, CO
    Average Salary: $89,128
    In Denver, planners play a key role in balancing growth with preserving natural landscapes. They work for companies such as HDR and Stantec on projects that enhance the quality of life for residents.
    Find Urban Planner jobs in Denver, CO


  5. Chicago, IL
    Average Salary: $83,415
    Chicago's urban planners focus on improving public spaces and transportation. They collaborate with firms like Perkins+Will and Chicago Architectural Group on projects that make the city more livable.
    Find Urban Planner jobs in Chicago, IL


  6. Omaha, NE
    Average Salary: $65,382
    Omaha offers a chance for planners to work on revitalizing neighborhoods and developing public facilities. Companies like Land Design Studio and Omaha Planning Department provide opportunities to make a direct impact on the community.
    Find Urban Planner jobs in Omaha, NE


  7. Atlanta, GA
    Average Salary: $65,196
    Atlanta provides a dynamic environment for planners to work on diverse projects. They collaborate with firms such as Turner Construction and Jacobs Engineering to manage rapid urban growth and infrastructure development.
    Find Urban Planner jobs in Atlanta, GA

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

Baxter & Woodman offers one of the best-paying opportunities for Urban Planners. The average salary stands at $91,750, making it a top choice for job seekers. CSG Consultants, Inc. follows closely with an average salary of $86,053 for Urban Planners, providing another attractive option in the field.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Urban Planner jobs, highlighting Baxter & Woodman with the highest at $91,750 and CSG Consultants, Inc. with the lowest at $86,053.
  1. Baxter & Woodman
    Average Salary: $91,750
    Baxter & Woodman offers rewarding opportunities for Urban Planners. They focus on sustainable planning and community development. This firm operates in the Northeast, with offices in Boston and Portland. They work on projects that aim to balance growth with environmental preservation.


  2. CSG Consultants, Inc.
    Average Salary: $86,053
    CSG Consultants, Inc. provides Urban Planners with dynamic roles in various states. This company emphasizes collaboration and innovation in urban design. They have offices in Denver, Seattle, and New York. Here, Urban Planners contribute to creating efficient and livable urban spaces.

How to earn more as a Urban Planner?

Urban planners can increase their earnings through several strategic approaches. One important factor is gaining more experience. As planners take on more complex projects and leadership roles, their value grows. Another way to earn more is by specializing in a specific area, such as sustainable development or transportation planning. Specialization can make an urban planner more attractive to employers willing to pay a premium for expertise.

Pursuing advanced education can also boost earnings. A master's degree in urban planning or a related field can lead to higher-paying positions. Certifications from recognized bodies can add credibility and increase salary potential. Networking within the industry can open doors to higher-paying opportunities. Attending conferences, joining professional organizations, and connecting with peers can lead to better job offers. Finally, working for top-tier firms or government agencies often comes with higher salaries compared to smaller firms.

Consider these factors to enhance earning potential:

  1. Gain more experience in complex projects.
  2. Specialize in areas like sustainable development or transportation planning.
  3. Pursue advanced degrees or certifications.
  4. Network within the industry through conferences and professional organizations.
  5. Work for top-tier firms or government agencies.

Currently 48 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
48 Job Openings