Mechanical Engineers Salary in California
Official Bureau of Labor Statistics Data - May 2024 - CA
Median Annual Salary in California
$120,388
$57.88 / hour
▲ 25.0% above national avg
National Median
$96,310
$46.30 / hour nationally
COL-Adjusted Purchasing Power
$80,312
Missouri equivalent (COL: 149.9)
Mechanical Engineers Salary in California
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (Entry Level) | $63,806 |
| 25th Percentile | $86,679 |
| 50th (Median) | $120,388 |
| 75th Percentile | $166,135 |
| 90th (Top Earners) | $207,067 |
| Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS, May 2024 | |
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Cost of Living Adjusted Salary
The California median salary of $120,388 for Mechanical Engineers has the purchasing power of approximately $80,312 in Missouri (the COL baseline state with index 100).
California's higher cost of living (COL index: 149.9) reduces the real purchasing power of wages compared to lower-cost states.
COL data: MERIC 2024 State Cost of Living Index. Missouri = 100 baseline.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do Mechanical Engineers make in California?
Mechanical Engineers in California earn a median annual salary of $120,388 per year ($57.88/hr) according to BLS OEWS data (May 2024). This is above the national median of $96,310.
Is California a good state for Mechanical Engineers?
California pays above the national average for mechanical engineers, making it a competitive market for this occupation. Cost of living in California is higher average (COL index: 149.9).
What is the cost-of-living adjusted salary for Mechanical Engineers in California?
After adjusting for cost of living (COL index: 149.9 vs. Missouri baseline of 100), the $120,388 salary in California has the purchasing power of approximately $80,312 in Missouri. Higher living costs in California reduce real purchasing power.
How does California compare to neighboring states for Mechanical Engineers salaries?
For detailed comparison across all states, see the full Mechanical Engineers salary page at the national level, which includes a complete 50-state salary table.
Top Paying Jobs in California
| # | Job Title | Median Annual |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Radiologists | $387,400 |
| 2 | Orthopedic Surgeons, Except Pediatric | $382,775 |
| 3 | Neurologists | $369,500 |
| 4 | Surgeons, All Other | $368,150 |
| 5 | Ophthalmologists, Except Pediatric | $339,850 |
| 6 | Psychiatrists | $312,248 |
| 7 | Physicians, Pathologists | $304,900 |
| 8 | General Internal Medicine Physicians | $304,175 |
| Source: BLS OEWS May 2024 | ||
About Mechanical Engineers in California
Mechanical Engineers work in their specialized field applying expertise and skills to deliver value in their organization. This occupation is part of the technology sector of the U.S. economy.
Education Required: Bachelor's degree