North Providence vs Providence: Civil Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare civil engineer salaries between North Providence, RI and Providence, RI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | North Providence, RI | Providence, RI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $99,787 | $101,922▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $47.98 | $49.00▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $72,309 | $77,989▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $81,540▲ | $81,170 |
| 75th Percentile | $127,108 | $138,356▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $154,671 | $154,766▲ |
| Total Employed | 6 | 1,550▲ |
Verdict
Providence, RI offers better overall compensation for civil engineers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to North Providence.
The salary gap between North Providence and Providence is $2,135 (2.14%). Providence's median is -1.52% compared to the US national median of $103,492.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in North Providence spans $82,362,Providence spans $76,777. North 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, Providence ($100,146 effective) pays 0.86% more than North Providence ($99,291 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose North Providence if…
- ✓You prefer the Rhode Island area and lifestyle
Choose Providence if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($101,922/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($154,766)
- ✓Larger job market (1,550 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $100,146)
- ✓You prefer the Rhode Island area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, civil engineer salaries in North Providence grew 2.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 19.9% growth in Providence over the same period.
North Providence, RI
$94,492 (2024) → $97,230 (2025)
Providence, RI
$82,830 (2019) → $99,310 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
North Providence, RI
Providence, RI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays civil engineers more: North Providence or Providence?
What is the hourly rate difference between North Providence and Providence?
Should I relocate from North Providence to Providence as a civil engineer?
What do entry-level civil engineers earn in North 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