Mechanical Engineer Salary 2025: $104,110 Median, 9% Growth
Mechanical Engineers earned a median salary of $104,110 in 2024, according to the latest BLS data. That works out to roughly $50 per hour, with the middle 80% of workers making between $73,990 and $164,340. The mean wage is $113,610.
With nearly 297,000 jobs nationwide and a projected growth rate much faster than average, this is a stable, well-compensated career for those who can handle the math and design challenges. Here is the breakdown of pay, career path, and outlook based on official government numbers.
How much Mechanical Engineers earn
The national median salary for Mechanical Engineers is $104,110. Half earn more, half less. The bottom 10% make $73,990 or less; the top 10% earn $164,340 or more. The mean (average) wage is $113,610, pulled up by higher earners.
Pay varies by industry and experience. For example, engineers in scientific research and development tend to earn more, while those in manufacturing often fall closer to the median. Entry-level positions typically start near the 10th percentile, but experienced engineers can push well into six figures.
Pay by state
Where you work dramatically impacts your paycheck. The highest-paying state for Mechanical Engineers is New Mexico, with an annual mean wage of $157,710. Other top-paying states include District of Columbia ($133,300), California ($130,900), Delaware ($125,130), and Colorado ($124,430).
On the lower end, North Dakota ($86,330), Kansas ($86,260), and Arkansas ($80,180) offer salaries well below the national median. Keep in mind cost of living differences: California's high wage comes with high housing costs, while Arkansas's lower wage buys more home for the money.
- New Mexico: $157,710
- District of Columbia: $133,300
- California: $130,900
- Delaware: $125,130
- Colorado: $124,430
- North Dakota: $86,330
- Kansas: $86,260
- Arkansas: $80,180
How to become a Mechanical Engineer
The standard path starts with a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a closely related field like mechanical engineering technology. ABET accreditation matters — many employers and state licensing boards require it. Programs cover thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, materials science, and design.
After graduation, most entry-level roles don't require a license. However, to eventually offer services directly to the public or become a senior engineer, you'll want a Professional Engineer (PE) license. That requires passing the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, gaining four years of experience, and then passing the PE exam. A master's degree can help with specialization or higher pay, but it's not typically required.
Internships and co-ops during college give you a real edge. Many employers hire from their intern pool. Start applying for positions in your junior year; the median salary for new graduates is around $70,000–$80,000, climbing quickly with experience.
- Earn a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering (ABET-accredited).
- Complete internships or co-ops for experience.
- Take the FE exam to become an Engineer in Training (EIT).
- Get four years of progressive experience.
- Pass the PE exam for full licensing (optional but beneficial).
Job outlook
Employment of Mechanical Engineers is projected to grow 9.1% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 18,100 job openings per year, many from retirements and career changes.
Demand will come from industries like automotive (especially electric vehicles), renewable energy, robotics, and advanced manufacturing. Engineers who stay current with computer-aided design (CAD) software and simulation tools will have the best prospects. The BLS expects 296,810 jobs in 2024, growing to roughly 324,000 by 2034.
Frequently asked questions
What is the highest salary for a Mechanical Engineer?
The top 10% of Mechanical Engineers earn $164,340 or more per year. In the highest-paying state, New Mexico, the average salary reaches $157,710.
How long does it take to become a Mechanical Engineer?
A bachelor's degree takes four years. Adding internships and licensing (EIT then PE) can add a few more years. Most people start full-time work right after graduation, so about four to five years from start to first job.
Is mechanical engineering a good career in 2025?
Yes. The median salary of $104,110 is well above the national average. Job growth at 9.1% is much faster than average, with 18,100 openings per year. It's a stable, well-paying field with diverse industries to choose from.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Mechanical Engineers data.