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City Planning Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Stillwater (MN)

City Planner

Stillwater, MN · On-site

$70K - $94K/yr

Graduate degree in city planning, urban studies/design, public policy, or related field 3-5 years of experience in planning, zoning administration or related field American Institute of Certified ...

City of Tampa

City Planning Director

Tampa, FL

Introduction This is highly responsible managerial and technical work in reviewing, monitoring, and implementing city land growth, urban design, project management, and planning and development ...

City of Tampa Florida

City Planning Director

Tampa, FL · On-site

$56.89 - $89.13/hr

Introduction This is highly responsible managerial and technical work in reviewing, monitoring, and implementing city land growth, urban design, project management, and planning and development ...

City of New York

Borough Planner

Manhattan, NY

The Department of City Planning (DCP) plans for the future of New York City, working to create thriving and dynamic neighborhoods with access to housing and jobs, resilient infrastructure, and a ...

City of New York

Borough Planner

Manhattan, NY · On-site

The Department of City Planning (DCP) plans for the future of New York City, working to create thriving and dynamic neighborhoods with access to housing and jobs, resilient infrastructure, and a ...

City of New York

Borough Planner

Manhattan, NY · On-site

The Department of City Planning (DCP) plans for the future of New York City, working to create thriving and dynamic neighborhoods with access to housing and jobs, resilient infrastructure, and a ...

City of New York

Borough Planner

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

The Department of City Planning (DCP) plans for the future of New York City, working to create thriving and dynamic neighborhoods with access to housing and jobs, resilient infrastructure, and a ...

City of New York

Borough Planner

Manhattan, NY

The Department of City Planning (DCP) plans for the future of New York City, working to create thriving and dynamic neighborhoods with access to housing and jobs, resilient infrastructure, and a ...

Coweta, City of (OK)

City Planner

Coweta, OK

$59K - $65K/yr

Description Job Summary: The City Planner performs professional work in planning, zoning ... Prepares and presents oral, written, and graphic reports, documents, maps, and related planning and ...

City of Coweta, OK

City Planner

Coweta, OK · On-site

$59K - $65K/yr

The City Planner performs professional work in planning, zoning, subdivision, and general community ... Prepares and presents oral, written, and graphic reports, documents, maps, and related planning and ...

City of Akron

City Planner I

Akron, OH

$57K - $63K/yr

Characteristic Work Assists with the planning, designing, implementation, and evaluation of research, field studies and analysis contributing to work elements of the City's planning program. Assists ...

City of Akron, OH

City Planner I

Akron, OH · On-site

$57K - $63K/yr

Characteristic Work Assists with the planning, designing, implementation, and evaluation of research, field studies and analysis contributing to work elements of the City's planning program. Assists ...

City of Atchison

City Planner

Atchison, KS · On-site

Whether reviewing site plans, presenting to the Planning Commission, or engaging directly with residents and local developers, the City Planner plays a vital role in preserving Atchison's unique ...

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City Planning information

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$56K

$103.2K

$157K

How much do city planning jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for city planning in the United States is $103,218.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,500.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much is a city planner paid?

City planners typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $50,000 to over $100,000 depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced certifications and experience in urban design or zoning can lead to higher compensation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a City Planner, and why are they important?

To thrive as a City Planner, you need a solid background in urban planning, land use, and environmental regulations, typically supported by a degree in urban planning or a related field. Familiarity with GIS software, zoning codes, and project management tools is essential. Strong communication, analytical thinking, and stakeholder engagement skills set outstanding city planners apart. These competencies ensure effective, sustainable urban development that meets community needs and regulatory standards.

What is the difference between City Planning vs Urban Design?

AspectCity PlanningUrban Design
Primary FocusLong-term land use, zoning, and policy developmentPhysical design of urban spaces and public areas
Required CredentialsBachelor's or master's in urban planning, geography, or related fieldsBachelor's or master's in architecture, landscape architecture, or urban design
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, planning departments, consulting firmsArchitectural firms, design studios, public agencies
Industry UsagePolicy formulation, land use regulation, community developmentDesigning streetscapes, parks, and public spaces

City Planning and Urban Design are closely related fields but differ in scope. City Planning focuses on policy, land use, and long-term development strategies, while Urban Design emphasizes the physical layout and aesthetic of urban spaces. Both roles often collaborate but serve distinct functions within urban development projects.

What are some of the main challenges city planners face when balancing community needs with regulatory requirements?

City planners often encounter the challenge of finding a balance between the diverse interests of community stakeholders and the constraints of zoning laws, environmental regulations, and budget limits. Engaging with residents, business owners, and government officials requires strong communication and negotiation skills, as well as the ability to interpret and apply complex planning codes. Navigating these challenges is a key part of the role, and successful planners are adept at facilitating public meetings, incorporating feedback, and developing creative solutions that comply with regulations while addressing community goals.

How can you become a city planner?

To become a city planner, you typically need a bachelor's degree in urban planning, geography, or a related field, with many positions requiring a master's degree. Gaining experience through internships and developing skills in GIS software, zoning laws, and public policy are also important. Certification from professional organizations can enhance job prospects and credibility in the field.

Is city planning a good career?

City planning is a viable career that involves developing land use policies, designing urban spaces, and working with government agencies. It typically requires a degree in urban planning or related fields, strong analytical skills, and knowledge of zoning laws and GIS tools. The profession offers opportunities for impact on community development and sustainability but can involve long hours and public engagement.

How much is an urban planner paid?

Urban planners typically earn a median annual salary of around $75,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $50,000 to over $100,000 depending on experience, location, and education. Entry-level positions usually start lower, while experienced professionals or those in high-demand areas can earn higher wages, often requiring knowledge of zoning laws, GIS tools, and planning regulations.

What is city planning?

City planning, also known as urban planning, is the process of designing and managing the development of cities, towns, and urban areas. It involves creating plans and policies for land use, transportation, housing, public spaces, and infrastructure to ensure sustainable and organized growth. City planners work to balance social, economic, and environmental needs, aiming to improve the quality of life for residents while accommodating future population changes. Their work often includes community engagement, zoning, and addressing challenges such as traffic congestion, housing shortages, and environmental protection.
More about City Planning jobs
What cities are hiring for City Planning jobs? Cities with the most City Planning job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of City Planning jobs? The most popular types of City Planning jobs are:
What states have the most City Planning jobs? States with the most job openings for City Planning jobs include:
City Planning jobs near you
Infographic showing various City Planning job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 54% Full Time, 44% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,218 per year, or $49.6 per hour.

City Planner

City of Stillwater (MN)

Stillwater, MN • On-site

$70K - $94K/yr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Description The City Planner assists the Community Development Department with the administration of land use codes, including development review and historic preservation efforts, by processing and reviewing land use applications and presenting them to the Planning Commission and Heritage Preservation Commission for consideration. This position supports the department through a variety of other related operations and responsibilities, such as code enforcement and implementation of the Comprehensive Plan. This position serves as the primary public contact with respect to the interpretation and application of the City's zoning and subdivision regulations.

The City Planner supports the Code Enforcement Technician in their efforts to ensure compliance with zoning and property maintenance standards Examples of Duties The essential functions of the positions include, but are not limited to, the following: Respond to public inquiries regarding zoning and subdivision regulations, policies, and processes Assist in the administration of land use requests, including processing of permits, public hearing notices, preparation of staff memos, and presentations to the Planning Commission Assist with evaluation of requests related to historic preservation and design review, including preparation of staff memos and presentations to the Heritage Preservation Commission Support Code Enforcement Technician by evaluating reported zoning violations Other duties as assigned, including research on topics related to planning, development, and historic preservation The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position. Typical Qualifications Minimum Qualifications: Education, Certification and Licensure Bachelor's degree in city planning, urban studies/design, public policy, or related field Experience 2 years of experience in planning, zoning administration or related field Desired Qualifications: Graduate degree in city planning, urban studies/design, public policy, or related field 3-5 years of experience in planning, zoning administration or related field American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Certification Supplemental Information COMPLEXITY Work requires many different processes and methods applied to an established professional or technical field.

RESPONSIBILITY This position both (a) operates under minimal supervision based on overall objectives and available resources and (b) must make decisions based on inadequate guidelines that require considerable interpretation and force the employee to plan all the phases of the assignment and develop some new methods. Moderate coordination of work with other individuals (Non-Supervisory) Work product or service affects the accuracy, reliability, or acceptability of further processes or services. REQUIRED PHYSICAL ABILITIES AND WORK CONDITIONS The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

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