Here’s a jaw-dropping fact: if you graduated with an engineering degree in New Jersey, you’re likely earning over $120,000 a year. But here’s where it gets controversial—while some majors are raking in six-figure salaries, others are left wondering if their degrees were worth the investment. Let’s dive into the numbers and uncover why certain fields pay off big time, while others leave graduates struggling to keep up.
New Jersey boasts one of the highest median household incomes in the country, but not all college degrees are created equal when it comes to earning potential. According to 2024 U.S. Census data, the median income for New Jersey residents with college degrees was $91,761. And this is the part most people miss—the gap between the highest and lowest-earning majors is staggering.
Engineering majors lead the pack, with a median income of $122,346, followed closely by computer science graduates at $114,736. These figures aren’t just impressive—they’re transformative, offering financial stability and opportunities that other fields can’t match. But what about those on the other end of the spectrum? Visual and performing arts majors, for instance, earn a median income of just $70,061, while education degree holders fare only slightly better at $71,790. Is it fair that some degrees seem to guarantee wealth, while others barely cover the bills?
It’s not just about the major—location matters too. If New Jersey engineers want to maximize their earnings, they might consider moving to Washington state, where their counterparts earn a median income of $141,112. Even more striking, Washington residents with degrees in computers, mathematics, and statistics top the nation with a median income of $150,685. Why? Washington is a tech powerhouse, home to giants like Amazon, Microsoft, and Boeing, which drives up salaries in these fields.
But here’s a thought-provoking question: Are we undervaluing degrees in the arts and education, or is the market simply reflecting demand? While tech and engineering fields dominate high-paying roles, society still relies heavily on educators and artists. Shouldn’t their contributions be compensated more fairly? Let’s open the floor for discussion—do you think certain degrees deserve higher pay, or is the current system justified? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
For a full breakdown of earnings by major, check out the chart here. And if you’re curious about more data-driven insights, follow Katie Kausch, NJ.com’s data reporter, who covers everything from education to politics and health. Her work sheds light on trends that shape our lives—and our wallets.
