Automotive & Maintenance Mitchell, SD Pop. 15,660

Auto Mechanic Salary in Mitchell, South Dakota

The median auto mechanic salary in Mitchell, SD is $38,532 per year, which is 18% below the national median and 6.8% below the South Dakota state average.

City Median
$38,532
vs State Avg
$-2,819
vs National
$-8,458
Cost of Living
82%

Auto Mechanic Pay in Mitchell: What to Expect (2026)

Mitchell offers a median auto mechanic salary of $38,532, which is $2,819 below the South Dakota state average of $41,351. Compared to the national median of $46,990, Mitchell pays below the national benchmark for this role.

One of Mitchell's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 82% of the national average. This means the $38,532 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $46,990 in an average-cost city. This makes Mitchell an attractive option for auto mechanics seeking strong real-dollar compensation.

The salary range for auto mechanics in Mitchell spans from $24,600 at the 10th percentile to $61,500 at the 90th percentile — a $36,900 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $26,240, while senior auto mechanics with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $59,040. Mitchell is a smaller market (pop. 15,660), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.

Auto Mechanic Salary in Mitchell by Experience

In Mitchell, an entry-level auto mechanic earns around $26,240, while experienced professionals earn up to $59,040 per year. The local cost of living index is 82% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$26,240
$-5,760 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$39,360
$-8,640 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$59,040
$-12,960 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Mitchell, SD

Percentile Mitchell
10th Percentile $24,600
25th Percentile $30,340
Median (50th) $38,532
75th Percentile $49,200
90th Percentile $61,500

Auto Mechanic Salary in Other South Dakota Cities

How to Become a Auto Mechanic in Mitchell

Education

Most auto mechanic positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Mitchell and the surrounding South Dakota area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Automotive DiagnosticsEngine RepairBrake SystemsElectrical SystemsASE CertificationCustomer Service

Job Outlook

Nationally, auto mechanic employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Mitchell may vary based on local industry and population growth.

Find Auto Mechanic Jobs in Mitchell

Browse open auto mechanic positions in Mitchell, SD:

Frequently Asked Questions: Auto Mechanic Salary in Mitchell

How much does a Auto Mechanic make in Mitchell, SD? ▼
The median auto mechanic salary in Mitchell, South Dakota is $38,532 per year, which is 18% below the national median of $46,990. Salaries range from $24,600 (10th percentile) to $61,500 (90th percentile).
How much does a Auto Mechanic make per hour in Mitchell? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $38,532, a auto mechanic in Mitchell earns approximately $19 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
How does Mitchell compare to the South Dakota state average for auto mechanic pay? ▼
Mitchell's median auto mechanic salary of $38,532 is 6.8% below the South Dakota state average of $41,351. The local cost of living index is 82% of the national average.
What is the cost of living in Mitchell, SD? ▼
Mitchell has a cost of living index of 82% compared to the national average. This means a auto mechanic salary of $38,532 in Mitchell has more purchasing power than the same salary in an average-cost city.
What qualifications do I need to become a auto mechanic in Mitchell? ▼
Most auto mechanic positions in Mitchell require a postsecondary nondegree award. Key skills include Automotive Diagnostics, Engine Repair, Brake Systems, Electrical Systems. The job market is projected to grow 4% nationally over the next decade.