Automotive & Maintenance Rhode Island (RI) Rank #13 of 50

Auto Mechanic Salary in Rhode Island

The median auto mechanic salary in Rhode Island is $49,340 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median of $46,990.

Median Salary
$49,340
vs National
+$2,350
State Rank
#13 of 50
Cost of Living
105%

Auto Mechanic Salary Overview in Rhode Island (2026)

Rhode Island ranks #13 out of 50 states for auto mechanic compensation. Rhode Island falls in the middle of the pack for auto mechanic pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $49,340 per year, auto mechanics in Rhode Island earn $2,350 more than the national median of $46,990.

Rhode Island's cost of living is near the national average at 105%, meaning auto mechanic salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.

The salary spread in Rhode Island is significant: auto mechanics at the 10th percentile earn $31,500, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $78,750 — a $47,250 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Rhode Island for this role is Providence, where the median reaches $50,749.

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 Rhode Island by Experience

In Rhode Island, an entry-level auto mechanic earns around $33,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $75,600 per year. The cost of living index in Rhode Island is 105% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$33,600
+$1,600 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$50,400
+$2,400 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$75,600
+$3,600 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Rhode Island

Percentile RI Salary
10th Percentile $31,500
25th Percentile $38,850
Median (50th) $49,340
75th Percentile $63,000
90th Percentile $78,750

Auto Mechanic Salary by City in Rhode Island

The largest employment areas for auto mechanics in Rhode Island include Providence, Warwick, Cranston, and Pawtucket. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Auto Mechanic in Rhode Island

Education

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

Key Skills

Automotive DiagnosticsEngine RepairBrake SystemsElectrical SystemsASE CertificationCustomer Service

Job Outlook in Rhode Island

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

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Frequently Asked Questions: Auto Mechanic Salary in Rhode Island

How much does a Auto Mechanic make in Rhode Island? ▼
The median auto mechanic salary in Rhode Island is $49,340 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median of $46,990. Salaries range from $31,500 (10th percentile) to $78,750 (90th percentile).
How much does a Auto Mechanic make per hour in Rhode Island? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $49,340, a auto mechanic in Rhode Island earns approximately $24 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Rhode Island a good state for auto mechanics? ▼
Rhode Island ranks #13 out of 50 states for auto mechanic pay. The cost of living index is 105% of the national average. Entry-level auto mechanics earn $33,600, while senior professionals earn $75,600.
How does Rhode Island compare to other states for auto mechanic salary? ▼
The highest paying state for auto mechanics is Hawaii at $79,883. Rhode Island's median of $49,340 ranks #13 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Colorado ($49,340) and New Hampshire ($49,340).
What is the entry-level auto mechanic salary in Rhode Island? ▼
An entry-level auto mechanic in Rhode Island earns approximately $33,600 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $50,400. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $75,600.
What city in Rhode Island pays auto mechanics the most? ▼
Providence is the highest paying city in Rhode Island for auto mechanics, with a median salary of $50,749. Other cities include Warwick and Cranston.