Mechanical Engineer Salary in the United States
Based on 286K+ data points from BLS and H-1B filings
Median Annual Salary
$102,901
$49.472/hr
▲ 5.9% vs 2023Salary Range
$84K – $177K
10th – 90th percentile
Total Employed
286K
workers nationwide
Mechanical engineers in the United States earn a median salary of $122,524 per year, with potential earnings reaching up to $185,869. This data represents compensation for 429 workers across the country. The field offers competitive pay reflecting the technical expertise and problem-solving skills required in the profession.
Mechanical Engineer salary in the United States varies based on several factors including experience level, educational credentials, industry sector, and geographic location. Engineers working in specialized manufacturing or aerospace sectors may command higher compensation than those in other industries. Additional considerations include company size, certifications, and individual performance records, all of which influence earning potential within this field.
Salary Distribution — Mechanical Engineer
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $84,080 |
| 25th percentile | $108,080 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $102,901 |
| 75th percentile | $168,460 |
| 90th percentile | $177,480 |
Mechanical Engineer Salary by State
Top 10 Highest-Paying States for Mechanical Engineer
| # | State | Median Salary | vs National | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | New Mexico | $141,490 | +37.5% | 2K |
| 2 | District of Columbia | $130,000 | +26.3% | 590 |
| 3 | Alaska | $129,990 | +26.3% | 530 |
| 4 | California | $126,370 | +22.8% | 27K |
| 5 | Massachusetts | $122,670 | +19.2% | 9K |
| 6 | Wyoming | $116,910 | +13.6% | 300 |
| 7 | Rhode Island | $115,270 | +12.0% | 1K |
| 8 | Louisiana | $114,050 | +10.8% | 2K |
| 9 | Maryland | $111,740 | +8.6% | 6K |
| 10 | Washington | $109,370 | +6.3% | 9K |
Historical Salary Trend — Mechanical Engineer
| Year | Median Salary (United States) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $92,043 |
| 2023 | $97,128 |
| 2024 | $102,901 |
| 2026 | $122,524 |
Mechanical Engineer Salary by Experience Level
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do mechanical engineers make per hour in the United States?
- Mechanical engineers earn a median of $59 per hour in the United States. This hourly rate is based on the median annual salary of $122,524 for the profession.
What is the salary range for mechanical engineers in the US?
- Mechanical engineers in the United States can earn up to $185,869 annually at the high end of the salary range. The median salary for the profession is $122,524 per year.
Which city pays mechanical engineers the most?
- California is the top paying location for mechanical engineers, with an average salary of $158,995 per year. This is significantly higher than the national median of $122,524.
Is mechanical engineering a well-paid career in the US?
- Yes, mechanical engineering is well-compensated with a median salary of $122,524 annually ($59/hour), and top earners in California can make $158,995 per year. With approximately 429 mechanical engineers employed, it remains a stable and lucrative career field.