Automotive & Maintenance Arkansas (AR) Rank #48 of 50

Auto Mechanic Salary in Arkansas

The median auto mechanic salary in Arkansas is $39,472 per year, which is 16% below the national median of $46,990.

Median Salary
$39,472
vs National
$-7,518
State Rank
#48 of 50
Cost of Living
84%

Auto Mechanic Salary Overview in Arkansas (2026)

Arkansas ranks #48 out of 50 states for auto mechanic compensation. Auto Mechanic salaries in Arkansas are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $39,472 per year, auto mechanics in Arkansas earn $7,518 less than the national median of $46,990.

A key advantage of working in Arkansas is its below-average cost of living (84% of the national index). This means the $39,472 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $46,990 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in Arkansas is significant: auto mechanics at the 10th percentile earn $25,200, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $63,000 — a $37,800 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Arkansas for this role is Fayetteville, where the median reaches $41,351.

Nationally, auto mechanic employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for auto mechanics across the country.

Auto Mechanic Salary in Arkansas by Experience

In Arkansas, an entry-level auto mechanic earns around $26,880, while experienced professionals earn up to $60,480 per year. The cost of living index in Arkansas is 84% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$26,880
$-5,120 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$40,320
$-7,680 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$60,480
$-11,520 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Arkansas

Percentile AR Salary
10th Percentile $25,200
25th Percentile $31,080
Median (50th) $39,472
75th Percentile $50,400
90th Percentile $63,000

Auto Mechanic Salary by City in Arkansas

The largest employment areas for auto mechanics in Arkansas include Little Rock, Fort Smith, Fayetteville, and Springdale. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Auto Mechanic in Arkansas

Education

Most auto mechanic positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Arkansas has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Automotive DiagnosticsEngine RepairBrake SystemsElectrical SystemsASE CertificationCustomer Service

Job Outlook in Arkansas

Nationally, auto mechanic employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Arkansas's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Auto Mechanic Salary in Arkansas

How much does a Auto Mechanic make in Arkansas? ▼
The median auto mechanic salary in Arkansas is $39,472 per year, which is 16% below the national median of $46,990. Salaries range from $25,200 (10th percentile) to $63,000 (90th percentile).
How much does a Auto Mechanic make per hour in Arkansas? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $39,472, a auto mechanic in Arkansas earns approximately $19 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Arkansas a good state for auto mechanics? ▼
Arkansas ranks #48 out of 50 states for auto mechanic pay. The cost of living index is 84% of the national average. Entry-level auto mechanics earn $26,880, while senior professionals earn $60,480.
How does Arkansas compare to other states for auto mechanic salary? ▼
The highest paying state for auto mechanics is Hawaii at $79,883. Arkansas's median of $39,472 ranks #48 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Kentucky ($40,881) and Oklahoma ($40,411).
What is the entry-level auto mechanic salary in Arkansas? ▼
An entry-level auto mechanic in Arkansas earns approximately $26,880 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $40,320. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $60,480.
What city in Arkansas pays auto mechanics the most? ▼
Fayetteville is the highest paying city in Arkansas for auto mechanics, with a median salary of $41,351. Other cities include Little Rock and Fort Smith.