Science · Develop comprehensive plans and programs for use of land and physical facilities of jurisdictions, such as towns, cities, counties, and metropolitan areas.
This profile is intended as career exploration guidance based on federal labor data. Actual job requirements, salaries, and opportunities vary by employer and location.
Entry Salary
$43–53k
First 1–2 years
Peak Salary
$86–101k
10+ years experience
Job Outlook
+3.4% · As fast as average
Projected growth of 3.4% from 2024 to 2034; about 3 openings projected per year.
Time to Start
6+ years
College degree typical
Salary data sourced from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) May 2024. Actual compensation varies by location, experience, employer, and specialization.
Research Assistant
Urban and Regional Planners
Experienced Urban and Regional Planners
Senior Urban and Regional Planners
Research Director / Chief Scientist
You prioritize Relationships
This career is strongly aligned with Relationships — a core work value that shapes how people approach their career decisions.
You're strong in Active Listening
Active Listening is a top skill for this career, and it plays to what students like you naturally do best.
Good fit for your timeline
This career typically requires a graduate or professional degree, which matches common student preparation goals.
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336 schools offer programs in this career field.
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