Lansing vs Muskegon: Civil Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare civil engineer salaries between Lansing, MI and Muskegon, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Lansing, MI | Muskegon, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $98,566▲ | $95,590 |
| Hourly Rate | $47.38▲ | $45.96 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $68,444▲ | $67,223 |
| 25th Percentile | $77,209▲ | $77,198 |
| 75th Percentile | $123,454▲ | $113,262 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $138,222▲ | $127,087 |
| Total Employed | 730▲ | 70 |
Verdict
Lansing, MI offers better overall compensation for civil engineers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Muskegon.
The salary gap between Lansing and Muskegon is $2,976 (3.11%). Lansing's median is -4.76% compared to the US national median of $103,492.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Lansing spans $69,778,Muskegon spans $59,864. Lansing 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, Lansing ($103,764 effective) pays 0.43% more than Muskegon ($103,319 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Lansing if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($98,566/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($138,222)
- ✓Larger job market (730 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $103,764)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Muskegon if…
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, civil engineer salaries in Lansing grew 18.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 30.9% growth in Muskegon over the same period.
Lansing, MI
$80,800 (2019) → $96,040 (2025)
Muskegon, MI
$71,180 (2019) → $93,140 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Lansing, MI
Muskegon, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
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Related Comparisons
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