Salary report · US · 2026
Transportation Planner Salary
The average transportation planner salary is $70,790 per year in the United States in 2026. Base pay runs from $51,000 at the 10th percentile to $97,000 at the 90th, with a median of $71,000. Bonuses add $1,000–$8,000, putting total pay between roughly $50,000 and $98,000.
Definition & distribution
What is the average transportation planner salary?
The average base salary for a Transportation Planner is $70,790 per year in 2026. The median salary is $71,000, indicating that half of the professionals earn below this amount while the other half earn above it.
The 10th percentile earns $51,000, while the 90th percentile reaches $97,000. This spread suggests that there is a significant variation in earnings based on experience, skills, and possibly geographic location.
Known limitations. The data is based on a sample size of 397 profiles, which may not capture all variations in the field. Additionally, salary figures can fluctuate based on local market conditions and individual qualifications.
Pay components
How is transportation planner total pay structured?
Compensation for Transportation Planners typically includes base salary and potential bonuses.
| Component | Low | High | Reading |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base salary | $51,000 | $97,000 | Dense around the $71k median |
| Annual bonus | $1,000 | $8,000 | Up to ~8% of top-end base |
| Total pay | $50,000 | $98,000 | Base plus reported bonus |
Pay by experience
How does experience change a transportation planner salary?
As with many professions, pay for Transportation Planners generally increases with experience. More seasoned professionals often command higher salaries due to their advanced skills and expertise.
- 01
Entry-Level
Entry-level Transportation Planners can expect salaries starting around $50,000 per year.
- 02
Mid-Career
Mid-career professionals typically earn between $70,000 and $80,000 per year, reflecting their growing expertise.
- 03
Senior-Level
Senior Transportation Planners can earn upwards of $90,000 per year, often depending on their specific responsibilities and leadership roles.
Skills
Which skills affect a transportation planner salary?
Key skills can significantly impact earning potential.
- 01
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) — the premium tier
Proficiency in GIS can enhance a Transportation Planner's value, leading to higher salaries.
- 02
Data Analysis — the premium tier
Strong data analysis skills are increasingly sought after and can elevate pay.
- 03
Strategic Planning — the promotion tier
Expertise in strategic planning can lead to advancement into higher-level positions with increased compensation.
Check your pay
Where does your salary fall?
To see where you stand in the salary landscape, check your percentile.
Raising your pay
How can transportation planners increase their salary?
There are several ways to potentially increase your salary as a Transportation Planner.
- 01
Pursue Advanced Certifications
Obtaining relevant certifications can enhance your qualifications and justify a higher salary.
- 02
Gain Specialized Experience
Focusing on niche areas within transportation planning can lead to higher-paying opportunities.
- 03
Network Within the Industry
Building connections can open doors to higher-paying positions and projects.
FAQ
Transportation Planner salary: FAQ
The highest reported salary for a Transportation Planner is $97,000 per year.
The lowest reported salary for a Transportation Planner is $51,000 per year.
You can increase your pay by pursuing advanced certifications, gaining specialized experience, and networking within the industry.
Yes, bonuses can range from $1,000 to $8,000 depending on performance and company policies.
The data is based on 397 profiles, providing a reasonable overview, but individual circumstances may vary.
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