What Can You Do With an Urban Planning Degree in 2025?

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Share

What are the top urban planning degree career opportunities?

Graduates with an urban planning degree have diverse career opportunities across different sectors, addressing complex challenges related to population growth, sustainability, and community development.

Here are some of the top career opportunities you can pursue with an urban planning degree:

• Urban and Regional Planner. Develops land-use plans, zoning policies, and strategies for sustainable growth in cities and regions.
• Transportation Planner. Designs efficient, safe, and sustainable transit systems, including roads, public transportation, and micromobility networks.
• Real Estate Development Planner. Bridges urban planning with property development, zoning approvals, and land-use feasibility. Get to know more about this career path in our fast-track real estate degree online programs guide.
• Environmental Planner. Focuses on conservation, climate resilience, and compliance with environmental regulations in development projects.
• Housing and Community Development Specialist. Works on affordable housing, neighborhood revitalization, and equitable community planning.
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Analyst / Mapping Specialist. Uses geographic information systems to analyze spatial data and support planning decisions.
• Policy Analyst / Public Affairs Specialist. Advises on urban policy, infrastructure funding, and social equity in planning. Many urban planning graduates who pursue this path supplement their education with an accelerated public policy online degree.
• Smart City or Sustainability Consultant. Implements technology-driven and eco-friendly solutions for urban infrastructure and services.

What is the salary potential for recent graduates of urban planning degrees?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a yearly median wage of $83,720 for urban and regional planners as of 2024. For recent graduates, the salary potential for an urban planning degree varies significantly depending on their level of education, location, and the type of employer. 

Based on our research for this guide, starting salaries are generally competitive and offer a solid foundation for career growth. 

• Recent graduates of traditional or accelerated online urban planning degree programs can expect starting salaries typically ranging from around $50,000 to $65,000 annually, depending on location, employer, and specific job role.
• Entry-level urban planners often begin as assistant planners or junior planners, with median salaries closer to the lower end of this range. 
• Salaries can be higher in metropolitan areas or specialized planning sectors such as transportation or environmental planning. 
• As they gain experience and advance professionally, salary potential increases significantly, with median urban planner salaries rising to about $79,000 to $83,000 overall in the field.
• The top 20% of earners made a yearly median salary of $128,550 in 2024. 

The chart below provides a better picture of the earning potential for graduates of urban planning degree programs. 

What is the urban planner job outlook for recent graduates?

The job outlook for recent graduates in urban planning is generally positive, with steady growth expected over the next decade. Similar to the career pathways available through the best online Christian leadership degree programs, where graduates step into roles that shape communities, urban planning professionals are also positioned to influence how cities and regions evolve.

• The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects about a 4% growth rate for urban and regional planners through 2033, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations. 
• This growth is driven by increasing population density, environmental concerns, and the need for more sustainable and resilient cities. 
• A World Bank report on urban development highlights how the urban population is expected to grow by more than double by 2050, with seven in 10 people projected to live in cities.
• As such, there is demand for planners who can address environmental concerns, transportation challenges, and population growth. 
• Recent graduates with relevant skills and credentials should find good opportunities, especially in government agencies, consulting firms, and private sector roles focused on urban development and policy.

To give you a better idea of the job outlook for urban planning degree graduates, here is the expected number of jobs each year for several roles that urban planners can pursue. The data comes from O*NET OnLine employment projections for 2023-2033:

• Urban and Regional Planners - 3,600
• Environmental Restoration Planners - 8,500
• GIS Technologists and Technicians - 34,800
• Sustainability Specialists - 107,400
• Transportation Planners - 3,500

What are the latest technological tools and software every modern urban planner should know?

Employers increasingly want data-savvy planners who can use digital tools for analysis, visualization, and stakeholder communication. Just as students in the best online AGACNP graduate certificate programs learn to integrate advanced clinical tools into their practice, today’s urban planners must master a wide range of digital platforms to stay effective in their field.

Geographic Information Systems

GIS software is the most fundamental tool for urban planners. It allows for the integration, analysis, and visualization of spatial data, which is essential for understanding land use patterns, demographics, and environmental factors.

• ArcGIS. This is the industry standard for GIS. It is a comprehensive suite of tools for mapping and geospatial analysis and is specifically designed to help planners create 3D experiences and manage land use.
• QGIS. A free, open-source alternative to ArcGIS. It offers many of the same powerful spatial analysis and mapping features and is an excellent option for students or professionals on a budget.

3D Modeling and Visualization

Planners rely on tools that can create realistic 3D models and renderings to effectively communicate project ideas to stakeholders and the public. 

• SketchUp. A user-friendly 3D modeling application widely used for creating quick, conceptual models of buildings and urban spaces.
• CityEngine. An advanced procedural modeling software that can generate detailed, large-scale urban environments. It is often used to create scenarios for urban growth and visualize master plans.
• Lumion. A real-time rendering tool that transforms 3D models into photorealistic images and videos, making it easier to present designs to the public.

Data Analytics and Simulation

Modern planners are data-driven, using software to analyze complex datasets and simulate the potential impacts of their plans.

• UrbanFootprint. A geospatial data platform that provides insights for urban development and resilience. It allows planners to run scenarios and model everything from energy demand to carbon emissions.
• TestFit. An AI-powered tool that uses algorithms to quickly generate building designs and site plans based on zoning regulations and other constraints, allowing for rapid scenario testing.
• Python/R. These programming languages are increasingly important for advanced statistical analysis, data automation, and creating custom tools for specific planning problems.

Community Engagement and Collaboration

Technology has revolutionized public participation, enabling planners to gather feedback and share information with communities in more interactive ways.

• CoUrbanize. An online platform designed to make community engagement more accessible and interactive for urban planning projects.
• Digital Blue Foam. An AI-powered urban planning tool that integrates real-time data to help with scenario planning and rapid design generation, often in collaboration with communities.

AI and Emerging Technologies

The application of AI technologies in urban planning is increasing thanks to the advanced capabilities of such tools. Modern planners rely on AI as a key tool for efficiency and innovation in the field.

• Digital Twins. These are real-time, virtual replicas of a city's physical environment. They allow planners to simulate everything from traffic patterns to energy usage, helping them test policies and infrastructure changes before they are implemented.
• Generative AI Tools. Platforms like UrbanistAI use AI to help with participatory urban design, allowing communities to co-create and visualize urban spaces.

I strongly suggest selecting an urban planning degree program that incorporates the latest technological and digital tools in the curriculum. 

What skills are gained from an urban planning degree?

An urban planning degree builds a blend of hard and soft skills, preparing graduates for diverse roles across government, private, and nonprofit sectors. Much like asking what can you do with an organizational communication degree opens the door to multiple career paths, studying urban planning equips students with versatile, transferable skills that apply to many industries.

Technical and Analytical Skills

• GIS and Spatial Analysis. Using tools like ArcGIS and QGIS to map, analyze, and visualize spatial data.
• Data Analysis and Forecasting. Applying statistics, demographics, and economic modeling to predict urban growth and needs.
• Urban Design and Land Use Planning. Creating zoning plans, site layouts, and development scenarios.
• Transportation and Infrastructure Planning. Analyzing mobility systems and planning for efficient, sustainable transit.
• Environmental and Sustainability Planning. Integrating climate resilience, green infrastructure, and conservation strategies.

Research and Policy Skills

• Policy Development and Evaluation. Understanding how land-use laws, housing policy, and zoning regulations shape communities.
• Community Development. Designing equitable solutions for housing, public spaces, and local economic growth.
• Impact Assessment. Conducting environmental and social impact studies for proposed projects.

Professional and Interpersonal Skills

• Communication and Public Engagement. Facilitating stakeholder meetings, public hearings, and workshops.
• Collaboration and Project Management. Working with architects, engineers, developers, and policymakers.
• Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking. Addressing challenges like housing shortages, congestion, or climate risks with innovative solutions.
• Ethics and Equity Awareness. Balancing development goals with social justice, cultural preservation, and community needs.

With these skills, graduates with an urban planning degree gain a competitive edge in the job market as many of these capabilities are highly sought after by employers. 

The chart below uses data from the World Economic Forum Future of Jobs 2025 report and presents some of the top core skills according to employers. 

What are some of the major global challenges urban planners are tackling today?

Urban planners today are on the front lines of some of the biggest global challenges affecting cities and communities. Much like asking what can you do with an MSN degree in clinical nurse leadership opens the door to understanding how advanced skills address systemic healthcare needs, exploring the work of urban planners reveals how their expertise helps solve pressing issues in modern cities.

• Climate Change and Sustainability. Developing resilient infrastructure to mitigate the impacts of extreme weather, reduce carbon emissions, and promote sustainable urban growth.
• Rapid Urbanization and Population Growth. Managing increased demand for housing, transportation, and services in expanding urban areas while preventing sprawl and overcrowding. 
• Affordable Housing and Social Equity. Ensuring inclusive access to safe, affordable housing and reducing disparities in urban living conditions.
• Transportation and Mobility. Designing efficient public transit systems and promoting walkability and bikeability to reduce traffic congestion and pollution.
• Infrastructure and Resource Management. Upgrading aging infrastructure, managing water and energy resources efficiently, and integrating green spaces for healthier urban environments.
• Economic Development and Job Creation. Fostering economic opportunities while balancing environmental and social impacts.

An urban planning degree can help aspiring planners to be better prepared for these challenges as such academic training equips them with the knowledge and skills for multidisciplinary approaches and innovative planning to create livable, equitable, and sustainable cities worldwide. 

Do urban planners need certification?

Certification is not mandatory to work as an urban planner in most U.S. states. Currently, only New Jersey requires planners to have a license. 

While not legally required in most places, professional certification is highly beneficial, especially for career advancement, and often preferred or even required by employers.

• In the U.S., the most recognized certification is the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) credential. It requires a relevant bachelor’s or master’s degree, work experience, and passing an exam. 
• Certification signals a high level of expertise and professionalism to employers, clients, and the public, with 97% of AICP members saying their certification meets or exceeds expectations for demonstrating a commitment to ethical standards of practice. 
• The American Planning Association (APA) reports that AICP-certified planners typically earn $16,000 more annually than their non-certified peers. 
• Many senior and leadership roles, particularly in the public sector, require or strongly prefer candidates to hold an AICP certification.
• Many senior and leadership roles, particularly in the public sector, require or strongly prefer candidates to hold an AICP certification. Four out of five AICP members attribute their career advancement to having earned certification. 
• Maintaining the certification requires ongoing continuing education, which keeps planners up-to-date with the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in the field.

What networking strategies work best for urban planning graduates? 

The best networking strategies for graduates of urban planning degree programs are a mix of in-person engagement and a strong digital presence. Making connections is crucial for career advancement, collaboration, and staying informed about industry trends.

Here are some of the best ways to grow your network as an urban planner: 

• Joining Professional Organizations. Becoming a member of bodies like the American Planning Association or regional planning institutes provides access to events, webinars, job boards, and mentorship programs.
• Attending Conferences and Workshops. Participating in urban planning conferences, workshops, and local chapter meetings helps build connections with professionals, learn about industry trends, and discover job opportunities.
• Leveraging Social Media and Online Platforms. Actively using LinkedIn to connect with planners, share projects, and join relevant groups aids visibility and professional relationships. Online forums like Reddit’s urban planning communities can also be valuable.
• Engaging in Internships and Volunteering. Gaining practical experience through internships or volunteering with planning agencies or nonprofits increases contacts and showcases skills to future employers.
• Building Relationships with Alumni. Connecting with alumni from your university’s urban planning program can lead to career advice, referrals, and insider knowledge.
• Informational Interviews. Proactively reaching out to experienced planners for one-on-one conversations to learn about their career paths and seek guidance.

These strategies help urban planning graduates cultivate meaningful relationships, stay informed, and enhance their career prospects in a specialized field.

What are alternative careers for urban planning graduates?

An urban planning degree provides a versatile skill set that opens doors to many careers beyond traditional planning roles. The interdisciplinary nature of the degree, which combines social science, design, data analysis, and public policy, prepares graduates to transfer into many alternative careers, including: 

• Building Inspector or Surveyor. A building inspector inspects structures to ensure they meet building codes, ordinances, and safety regulations. A building surveyor has a broader role, advising clients on the design, construction, and maintenance of a building's entire lifecycle.
• Public Administrator or City Manager. Planners have a deep understanding of local government operations, budget processes, and community needs. They can move into administrative roles to oversee city departments, manage public services, and lead strategic initiatives.
• Housing Officer. Graduates concerned with social equity can work as housing officers for government agencies or non-profits. They manage public housing programs, assess housing needs, and develop policies to increase affordability and access to housing.
• Market Research Analyst. Using their experience in gathering and analyzing data on demographics, land use, and economic trends, urban planners can assess the feasibility of new products or services by studying consumer behavior and market conditions. 
• Architect. Creating functional, aesthetically pleasing, and sustainable buildings and structures, overseeing projects from initial concept to completion while adhering to codes and regulations. However, you need to obtain licensure after completing an accredited traditional or accelerated online architecture degree.
• Landscape Architect. While some landscape architecture roles require a specific license, the design and environmental skills of a planner are highly relevant. They can assist in designing outdoor spaces, from public parks to large-scale residential communities.
• Urban Designer. Creating plans for the physical layout and aesthetics of urban spaces. Urban designers work on master plans, streetscapes, and public spaces, often collaborating with architects and engineers.

Some urban planning degree graduates who enjoy data, policy research, and writing can also pursue roles in academia and research as lecturers, think tank analysts, or research assistants.

The versatile skill set of urban planners can present opportunities to transition to related fields and work in high-paying industries. The chart below provides additional details. 

What are some of the best advanced urban planning degrees to pursue?

Once someone has a foundation in urban planning, pursuing an advanced degree can unlock higher-paying, leadership, or specialized roles. Here are some of the best advanced urban planning degrees to pursue:

• Master of Urban and Regional Planning (MUP or MURP). This is the most common graduate degree in the field and prepares students for professional planning certification. This graduate urban planning degree typically covers land use, housing, transportation, GIS, and community development.
• Master’s in Sustainable Urban Planning or Environmental Planning. Focuses on climate resilience, sustainability, and green infrastructure, and is ideal for careers in environmental consulting, climate adaptation, and renewable energy planning. If you are interested in this path, you can also check out our guide on the shortest environmental management online MBA programs.
• Master’s in Urban Design or City Design. Blends architecture, design, and planning, and prepares graduates for careers in urban design firms, real estate development, and placemaking.
• Master’s in Transportation Planning or Mobility Systems. Specialized training in transit systems, traffic engineering, and micromobility, and often includes simulation tools like PTV Vissim or TransCAD.
• Master’s in Geographic Information Science or Spatial Data Science. Focuses on geospatial technology, big data, and analytics, and is excellent for careers as a GIS analyst, urban data scientist, or smart city consultant.
• Master of Public Policy (MPP) or Master of Public Administration (MPA). Ideal for those who want to influence housing, infrastructure, or zoning policies, and usually leads to policy analyst, city manager, or leadership roles in government and nonprofits.
• Master’s in International Development or Global Urban Studies. Focuses on rapid urbanization, global housing crises, and urban poverty, and is often pursued by those working with NGOs, United Nations (UN) agencies, or international consultancies.
• PhD in Urban Planning, Policy, or Urban Studies. Research-focused, leading to academic, think-tank, or high-level policy roles. These degree programs are ideal for those pursuing teaching, advanced research, or leadership in urban policy.

Data from Zippia shows that 64% of urban planners in the United States have a bachelor’s, 30% have a master’s, and 2% have a doctorate. 

While pursuing an advanced urban planning degree opens doors to career advancement and specialization, it can require a considerable additional investment. Thus, carefully plan your academic and professional progression and explore alternative and affordable educational pathways. 

Here’s What Urban Planning Graduates Have to Say About Their Careers

Other Things You Need to Know About Urban Planning Degrees

Can urban planners work remotely or in hybrid roles?

Yes, many urban planners now work in remote or hybrid roles, especially in research, GIS, policy analysis, and consulting. While on-site community engagement or fieldwork may still be required, digital tools make flexible, location-independent planning work increasingly possible.

What is the difference between urban planning and environmental planning?

Urban planning focuses on land use, infrastructure, housing, and community development in cities and regions, while environmental planning emphasizes sustainability, natural resource management, and minimizing ecological impact. Both fields overlap, but environmental planning prioritizes ecological balance alongside urban growth.

Is an accredited degree from a Planning Accreditation Board (PAB) school necessary for a successful urban planning career?

A PAB-accredited degree is not strictly required for a successful urban planning career, but it can improve job prospects, meet educational standards for AICP certification, and signal strong professional preparation to employers.

Is an urban planning career stressful?

An urban planning career can be stressful due to tight deadlines, public opposition, and balancing diverse stakeholder needs. However, many planners find the work rewarding, as it allows them to shape communities, solve complex problems, and create meaningful, lasting impact.