East Providence vs Providence: Civil Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare civil engineer salaries between East Providence, RI and Providence, RI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | East Providence, RI | Providence, RI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $103,097▲ | $101,922 |
| Hourly Rate | $49.57▲ | $49.00 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $71,674 | $77,989▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $82,083▲ | $81,170 |
| 75th Percentile | $131,490 | $138,356▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $159,800▲ | $154,766 |
| Total Employed | 10 | 1,550▲ |
Verdict
East Providence, RI offers better overall compensation for civil engineers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Providence.
The salary gap between East Providence and Providence is $1,175 (1.15%). East Providence's median is -0.38% compared to the US national median of $103,492.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in East Providence spans $88,126,Providence spans $76,777. East Providence has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, East Providence ($102,584 effective) pays 2.43% more than Providence ($100,146 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose East Providence if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($103,097/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($159,800)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $102,584)
- ✓You prefer the Rhode Island area and lifestyle
Choose Providence if…
- ✓Larger job market (1,550 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Rhode Island area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, civil engineer salaries in East Providence grew 2.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 19.9% growth in Providence over the same period.
East Providence, RI
$97,626 (2024) → $100,455 (2025)
Providence, RI
$82,830 (2019) → $99,310 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
East Providence, RI
Providence, RI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays civil engineers more: East Providence or Providence?
What is the hourly rate difference between East Providence and Providence?
Should I relocate from East Providence to Providence as a civil engineer?
What do entry-level civil engineers earn in East Providence vs Providence?
Written by Jordan Chen, P.E.
Career Analyst
Jordan Chen has 10 years of experience in structural engineering. He works primarily in urban infrastructure projects.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.63% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Jordan Chen, P.E., a licensed civil engineer with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov