Automotive & Maintenance Los Angeles, CA Pop. 3,898,747

Diesel Mechanic Salary in Los Angeles, California

The median diesel mechanic salary in Los Angeles, CA is $80,884 per year, which is 46.0% above the national median and 5.8% above the California state average.

City Median
$80,884
vs State Avg
+$4,432
vs National
+$25,484
Cost of Living
146%

Diesel Mechanic Pay in Los Angeles: What to Expect (2026)

Los Angeles offers a median diesel mechanic salary of $80,884, which is $4,432 above the California state average of $76,452. Compared to the national median of $55,400, Los Angeles pays above average for this role.

However, Los Angeles's cost of living index is 146%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $80,884 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $55,400. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Los Angeles should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.

The salary range for diesel mechanics in Los Angeles spans from $51,100 at the 10th percentile to $119,720 at the 90th percentile — a $68,620 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $54,020, while senior diesel mechanics with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $113,880. As a major metro area with a population of 3,898,747, Los Angeles typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.

Diesel Mechanic Salary in Los Angeles by Experience

In Los Angeles, an entry-level diesel mechanic earns around $54,020, while experienced professionals earn up to $113,880 per year. The local cost of living index is 146% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$54,020
+$17,020 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$81,760
+$25,760 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$113,880
+$35,880 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Los Angeles, CA

Percentile Los Angeles
10th Percentile $51,100
25th Percentile $62,780
Median (50th) $80,884
75th Percentile $100,740
90th Percentile $119,720

Diesel Mechanic Salary in Other California Cities

San Francisco, CA
$100,828
Pop. 873,965
San Jose, CA
$93,072
Pop. 1,013,240
San Diego, CA
$78,668
Pop. 1,386,932
Sacramento, CA
$65,372
Pop. 524,943

How to Become a Diesel Mechanic in Los Angeles

Education

Most diesel mechanic positions require a high school diploma. Los Angeles and the surrounding California area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Diesel EnginesHydraulic SystemsElectrical DiagnosticsPreventive MaintenanceCDL KnowledgeWelding

Job Outlook

Nationally, diesel mechanic employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Los Angeles may vary based on local industry and population growth.

Find Diesel Mechanic Jobs in Los Angeles

Browse open diesel mechanic positions in Los Angeles, CA:

Indeed → LinkedIn → ZipRecruiter → Glassdoor →

Frequently Asked Questions: Diesel Mechanic Salary in Los Angeles

How much does a Diesel Mechanic make in Los Angeles, CA? ▼
The median diesel mechanic salary in Los Angeles, California is $80,884 per year, which is 46.0% above the national median of $55,400. Salaries range from $51,100 (10th percentile) to $119,720 (90th percentile).
How much does a Diesel Mechanic make per hour in Los Angeles? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $80,884, a diesel mechanic in Los Angeles earns approximately $39 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
How does Los Angeles compare to the California state average for diesel mechanic pay? ▼
Los Angeles's median diesel mechanic salary of $80,884 is 5.8% above the California state average of $76,452. The local cost of living index is 146% of the national average.
What is the cost of living in Los Angeles, CA? ▼
Los Angeles has a cost of living index of 146% compared to the national average. This means a diesel mechanic salary of $80,884 in Los Angeles has less purchasing power than the same salary in an average-cost city.
What qualifications do I need to become a diesel mechanic in Los Angeles? ▼
Most diesel mechanic positions in Los Angeles require a high school diploma. Key skills include Diesel Engines, Hydraulic Systems, Electrical Diagnostics, Preventive Maintenance. The job market is projected to grow 5% nationally over the next decade.