Urban and Regional Planners
O*NET 19-3051.00 · SOC 19-3051
Urban and Regional Planner is a solid career choice. Median pay is $89k a year with +3.9% projected growth through 2035 (about as fast as average) and about 3,200 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Review zoning applications and recommend approval or denial.
- →Develop land use plans for residential and commercial areas.
- →Meet with community members to gather input on development projects.
- →Analyze population growth data to forecast future housing needs.
- →Write reports recommending changes to local zoning ordinances.
Education & How to Get In
Urban and Regional Planner roles typically require a master's degree, doctorate, or professional degree. This is a long-term investment, expect 6–10 years of post-secondary education, but the depth of expertise commands strong compensation and career stability.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Analytical, research labs, offices, or remote
Independent, focused deep work with periodic team check-ins
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as an Urban and Regional Planner involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Urban and Regional Planner?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Urban and Regional Planner Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Urban and Regional Planners is projected to grow 3.9% from 2025 to 2035, about as fast as average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·35% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does an Urban and Regional Planner make?
The median Urban and Regional Planner earns $89k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Urban and Regional Planner jobs?
Our model puts Urban and Regional Planner at 31 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 35% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace.
Is Urban and Regional Planner a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 3.9% between 2025 and 2035, which is about as fast as average. That works out to roughly 3,200 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be an Urban and Regional Planner?
Urban and Regional Planner roles generally require a master's, doctorate or professional degree, so plan for graduate study rather than a bachelor's alone.
How long does it take to become an Urban and Regional Planner?
Typically six to ten years, typically a master's, doctorate or professional degree. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 5 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is an Urban and Regional Planner career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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