Manhattan vs Topeka: Civil Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare civil engineer salaries between Manhattan, KS and Topeka, KS. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Manhattan, KS | Topeka, KS |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $98,556▲ | $96,205 |
| Hourly Rate | $47.38▲ | $46.26 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $51,233 | $68,311▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $74,889 | $77,691▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $127,230▲ | $117,275 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $132,352 | $138,068▲ |
| Total Employed | 180 | 300▲ |
Verdict
Manhattan and Topeka are closely matched on overall civil engineer compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Manhattan and Topeka is $2,351 (2.44%). Manhattan's median is -4.77% compared to the US national median of $103,492.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Manhattan spans $81,119,Topeka spans $69,757. Manhattan 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, Manhattan ($109,310 effective) pays 0.92% more than Topeka ($108,315 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Manhattan if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($98,556/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $109,310)
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Choose Topeka if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($138,068)
- ✓Larger job market (300 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, civil engineer salaries in Manhattan grew 30.7% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 29.4% growth in Topeka over the same period.
Manhattan, KS
$73,490 (2019) → $96,030 (2025)
Topeka, KS
$72,470 (2019) → $93,740 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Manhattan, KS
Topeka, KS
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays civil engineers more: Manhattan or Topeka?
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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