Earnings vary based on position, work experience, and the population of the city or town the planner serves. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, median annual earnings of urban and regional planners were $74,350 in May 2019. The lowest paid 10 percent earned less than $45,850, and the highest paid 10 percent earned more than $116,280. Mean annual earnings in local government, the industry employing the largest numbers of urban and regional planners, were $75,910.

Many planners work for government agencies, so they usually have sick leave and vacation privileges and are covered by retirement and health plans. Many planners also have access to a city-owned automobile.

Planners who work as consultants are generally paid on a fee basis. Their earnings are often high and vary greatly according to their reputations and work experience. Their earnings will depend on the number of consulting jobs they accept.

Urban and Regional Planners

Overview

Introduction

Quick Facts

Earnings

Work Environment

Outlook

Related Professions

Ambassadors

Architects

Assessors and Appraisers