How much does a Mechanical Engineer make?
Mechanical engineers design and develop machines and systems. They find work in many industries, including automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing. Their skills are in high demand, and they often earn a good salary. The average yearly salary for a mechanical engineer is around $99,544. This is a solid income for many job seekers.
Mechanical engineers can earn different amounts based on their experience and where they work. Here are some salary ranges:
- The lowest 10% earn about $49,000 per year.
- The next 20% earn between $60,639 and $72,277 per year.
- The middle 20% earn between $72,277 and $83,916 per year.
- The next 20% earn between $83,916 and $95,555 per year.
- The top 10% earn more than $130,470 per year.
What are the highest paying cities for a Mechanical Engineer?

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Waco, TX
Average Salary: $125,714
Waco offers a vibrant community for engineers. With companies like Bell Helicopter and various tech startups, professionals find ample opportunities. The city's growing tech scene provides a dynamic environment for innovation.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $124,141
San Francisco is a hub for tech and engineering. Companies like Tesla and Oracle offer exciting roles. The city's innovative spirit makes it a great place for engineers to thrive.
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Augusta, GA
Average Salary: $123,088
Augusta provides a balanced lifestyle with a strong engineering community. Companies like Savannah River Site offer significant opportunities. The city's lower cost of living enhances quality of life.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $121,012
San Jose is the heart of Silicon Valley. Engineers work with top companies like Apple and Intel. The city's tech-driven economy offers endless possibilities for career growth.
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Midland, TX
Average Salary: $116,865
Midland boasts a strong engineering sector, especially in energy. Companies like Chevron and ConocoPhillips provide robust career paths. The city's family-friendly environment adds to its appeal.
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Manchester, NH
Average Salary: $116,544
Manchester offers a mix of industry and innovation. Engineers find roles with companies like BAE Systems and BAE Systems. The city's affordable living costs and strong community make it attractive.
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Springfield, MA
Average Salary: $116,379
Springfield is a center for manufacturing and engineering. Companies like MassMutual and Smith & Wesson offer diverse opportunities. The city's rich history and vibrant culture enhance the professional experience.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $114,867
Seattle is a tech powerhouse with giants like Amazon and Boeing. Engineers enjoy a thriving job market with many opportunities. The city's natural beauty and outdoor activities provide a great work-life balance.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $113,314
San Diego offers a perfect blend of beach life and tech innovation. Companies like Qualcomm and General Atomics provide exciting roles. The city's mild climate and outdoor lifestyle make it a desirable place to work.
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Savannah, GA
Average Salary: $112,854
Savannah combines historic charm with modern industry. Engineers find opportunities with companies like Gulfstream Aerospace. The city's rich culture and coastal location offer a unique professional experience.
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What are the best companies a Mechanical Engineer can work for?

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Apple
Average Salary: $193,065
Apple offers exciting opportunities for Mechanical Engineers. They work on innovative products and technologies. Apple operates globally, with major offices in the U.S., Europe, and Asia.
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Intuitive (Intuitive Surgical)
Average Salary: $170,421
Intuitive Surgical provides Mechanical Engineers with the chance to develop advanced medical devices. They focus on minimally invasive surgery. The company has locations in the U.S., Europe, and Asia.
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Google
Average Salary: $167,273
Google offers Mechanical Engineers roles in various tech projects. They work on cutting-edge technology and products. Google has offices worldwide, including the U.S., Europe, and Asia.
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Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory
Average Salary: $164,723
This lab provides Mechanical Engineers with opportunities in research and development. They focus on national security and aerospace projects. The lab is located in Maryland, USA.
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Relativity Space
Average Salary: $156,759
Relativity Space offers Mechanical Engineers roles in aerospace engineering. They work on developing 3D-printed rockets. The company is based in California, USA.
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Microsoft
Average Salary: $155,437
Microsoft offers Mechanical Engineers roles in software and hardware development. They work on innovative tech solutions. Microsoft has offices worldwide, including the U.S., Europe, and Asia.
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Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
Average Salary: $152,912
This lab provides Mechanical Engineers with opportunities in national security and energy research. They focus on advanced technologies. The lab is located in California, USA.
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Motion Recruitment
Average Salary: $152,103
Motion Recruitment offers Mechanical Engineers roles in various industries. They focus on placing engineers in the right positions. They operate globally, with a strong presence in the U.S. and Europe.
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Applied Materials
Average Salary: $150,215
Applied Materials offers Mechanical Engineers roles in semiconductor manufacturing. They work on advanced technology and equipment. The company has offices worldwide, including the U.S., Europe, and Asia.
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Keysight Technologies
Average Salary: $148,228
Keysight Technologies provides Mechanical Engineers with roles in electronics testing and measurement. They focus on innovative solutions. The company operates globally, with major offices in the U.S., Europe, and Asia.
How to earn more as a Mechanical Engineer?
Mechanical engineers have many ways to increase their earnings. They can gain more skills, work in high-demand areas, and take on leadership roles. Each of these steps can lead to higher pay and better job opportunities. Building a strong network within the industry also helps. This network can lead to new job offers and salary increases.
Here are some key factors to consider for earning more as a mechanical engineer:
- Gain specialized skills: Learning new skills can make a mechanical engineer more valuable. Skills in computer-aided design (CAD) or finite element analysis (FEA) are in demand. Certifications in these areas can lead to higher pay.
- Work in high-demand industries: Industries like aerospace, automotive, and energy often pay more. Engineers in these fields may earn higher salaries due to the complexity and importance of their work.
- Take on leadership roles: Moving into management or project leadership can lead to higher pay. These roles often come with more responsibility and better compensation.
- Pursue advanced degrees: A master's or Ph.D. can open doors to higher-paying positions. Advanced degrees show a commitment to the field and can lead to research and teaching roles.
- Build a strong professional network: Networking with other professionals can lead to job opportunities and salary increases. Attending industry conferences and joining professional organizations can help.