Auto Mechanic Salary in Fort Smith, Arkansas
The median auto mechanic salary in Fort Smith, AR is $37,592 per year, which is 20% below the national median and 4.8% below the Arkansas state average.
Auto Mechanic Pay in Fort Smith: What to Expect (2026)
Fort Smith offers a median auto mechanic salary of $37,592, which is $1,880 below the Arkansas state average of $39,472. Compared to the national median of $46,990, Fort Smith pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Fort Smith's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 80% of the national average. This means the $37,592 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $46,990 in an average-cost city. This makes Fort Smith an attractive option for auto mechanics seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for auto mechanics in Fort Smith spans from $24,000 at the 10th percentile to $60,000 at the 90th percentile — a $36,000 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $25,600, while senior auto mechanics with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $57,600. Fort Smith is a smaller market (pop. 89,142), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Auto Mechanic Salary in Fort Smith by Experience
In Fort Smith, an entry-level auto mechanic earns around $25,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $57,600 per year. The local cost of living index is 80% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Fort Smith, AR
| Percentile | Fort Smith |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $24,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $29,600 |
| Median (50th) | $37,592 |
| 75th Percentile | $48,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $60,000 |
Auto Mechanic Salary in Other Arkansas Cities
How to Become a Auto Mechanic in Fort Smith
Education
Most auto mechanic positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Fort Smith and the surrounding Arkansas area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, auto mechanic employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Fort Smith may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Auto Mechanic Jobs in Fort Smith
Browse open auto mechanic positions in Fort Smith, AR: