Urban and regional planners
๐ค Save CareerUrban and regional planners play a vital role in the US economy, with 45K professionals employed nationwide. The median annual salary is $83,720, with projected growth of 3% through 2034 (As fast as average).
๐ฐ Salary Range
๐ Growth Outlook
moderate โ 3% projected growth๐ค AI Automation Risk
Significant portions of this job could be automated by AI.
๐คAI Impact Deep Dive: Urban and regional planners
๐ฌ AI Impact Deep Dive: Urban and regional planners
AI Collaboration Score
Measures how much AI tools are used as collaborative assistants in this role (0% = no AI involvement, 100% = AI-intensive workflow)
๐ฎ Future Outlook
Urban planners perform heavy knowledge work including data analysis, GIS mapping, and report writing, all of which are highly susceptible to AI enhancement and automation. However, the role requires significant physical site inspections and high-stakes interpersonal negotiation with government officials and the public, which provides a buffer against total automation.
Analysis based on Microsoft "Working with AI" research (2025), O*NET task data v30.2, and Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational projections. Updated March 2026.
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A Day in the Life
๐Career Outlook & Getting Started
Why It's Promising
With 3% projected growth and a median salary of $83,720, this career offers steady prospects. While the field is specialized, demand remains consistent.
How to Get Started
Entry typically requires master's degree. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field.
Who Is It For
Anyone interested in urban and regional planners who wants to build a rewarding career in this field.
๐Majors & Top Schools
โFrequently Asked Questions
How much does a Urban and regional planners make in 2026?โผ
The median salary for a Urban and regional planners is $83,720 per year. Entry-level positions start around $50,232, while experienced professionals can earn up to $133,952 depending on location, specialization, and industry.
How do I become a Urban and regional planners?โผ
Entry typically requires master's degree. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field. The typical education requirement is master's degree.
What degree do you need to be a Urban and regional planners?โผ
Most Urban and regional planners positions require master's degree. However, some professionals enter the field through alternative paths like bootcamps, certifications, or self-directed learning.
What AP courses should I take to become a Urban and regional planners?โผ
Check PathLeap for personalized AP course recommendations for Urban and regional planners. The right AP courses depend on your target college major and career specialization.
What does a Urban and regional planners do on a daily basis?โผ
As a urban and regional planner, your day involves a mix of specialized tasks that require both expertise and adaptability. You work with colleagues, clients, or patients depending on the setting, applying your training to solve real-world problems.
Is Urban and regional planners a good career in 2026?โผ
With 3% projected growth and a median salary of $83,720, this career offers steady prospects. While the field is specialized, demand remains consistent. Job growth is projected at 3%, which is declining. The median salary of $83,720 also positions it competitively in the job market.
Will AI replace Urban and regional plannerss?โผ
Urban and regional planners has an AI automation risk score of 70/100 (High). This career faces significant evolution from AI. However, new specialized roles are emerging that combine domain expertise with AI capabilities.
What kind of person makes a good Urban and regional planners?โผ
Anyone interested in urban and regional planners who wants to build a rewarding career in this field. Success in this role also depends on continuous learning and adaptability, especially as the field evolves with new technology and industry trends.
Is Urban and regional planners Right for You?
Take our career quiz to see how Urban and regional planners matches your personality. Get personalized AP course recommendations and see what similar students are exploring.
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