How to Become an Urban Planner
Develop plans and programs for the use of land, design communities, and accommodate population growth in urban areas. It typically requires a master's degree, with a median salary of $89,320 per year and about average projected job growth.
Median pay
$89,320/yr
Typical range
$60,010 to $134,490
Job growth
3%
Openings / yr
3,400
Majors that lead here
Common majors include Urban Planning, Urban Studies, Geography, Public Policy, Environmental Studies.
Key skills
- Land Use Planning
- GIS
- Zoning Regulations
- Community Engagement
- Data Analysis
Helpful certifications
- AICP (American Institute of Certified Planners)
Is this career a fit?
Remote-friendly
52/100
Work-life balance
72/100
Stress level
32/100
Satisfaction
75/100
Frequently asked questions
How much does an Urban Planner make?
The median pay for an Urban Planner is $89,320 a year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). The typical range runs from $60,010 to $134,490, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What degree do you need to become an Urban Planner?
The usual entry point is a master's degree. Common majors are Urban Planning, Urban Studies, Geography, Public Policy, and Environmental Studies.
Is Urban Planner a growing field?
The BLS projects about average demand for this role, about 3% over the decade, with roughly 3,400 U.S. openings a year.
What skills does an Urban Planner use most?
Common skills for this role are Land Use Planning, GIS, Zoning Regulations, Community Engagement, and Data Analysis.
Planning to become a Urban Planner?
Save this career to your PlanexAI path and track the majors, courses, and milestones that lead to it.
Not sure this is right for you?
Take our free 2-minute quiz to match your interests to majors and careers.
Take the major quizSalary and job-growth figures: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and O*NET OnLine (median annual wages May 2025; employment projections 2024-2034). National figures; actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.