Automotive & Maintenance Missouri (MO) Rank #42 of 50

Diesel Mechanic Salary in Missouri

The median diesel mechanic salary in Missouri is $48,752 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $55,400.

Median Salary
$48,752
vs National
$-6,648
State Rank
#42 of 50
Cost of Living
88%

Diesel Mechanic Salary Overview in Missouri (2026)

Missouri ranks #42 out of 50 states for diesel mechanic compensation. Diesel Mechanic salaries in Missouri are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $48,752 per year, diesel mechanics in Missouri earn $6,648 less than the national median of $55,400.

A key advantage of working in Missouri is its below-average cost of living (88% of the national index). This means the $48,752 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $55,400 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in Missouri is significant: diesel mechanics at the 10th percentile earn $30,800, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $72,160 — a $41,360 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Missouri for this role is Kansas City, where the median reaches $50,968.

Nationally, diesel mechanic employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for diesel mechanics across the country.

Diesel Mechanic Salary in Missouri by Experience

In Missouri, an entry-level diesel mechanic earns around $32,560, while experienced professionals earn up to $68,640 per year. The cost of living index in Missouri is 88% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$32,560
$-4,440 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$49,280
$-6,720 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$68,640
$-9,360 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Missouri

Percentile MO Salary
10th Percentile $30,800
25th Percentile $37,840
Median (50th) $48,752
75th Percentile $60,720
90th Percentile $72,160

Diesel Mechanic Salary by City in Missouri

The largest employment areas for diesel mechanics in Missouri include Kansas City, Saint Louis, Springfield, and Columbia. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Diesel Mechanic in Missouri

Education

Most diesel mechanic positions require a high school diploma. Missouri has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Diesel EnginesHydraulic SystemsElectrical DiagnosticsPreventive MaintenanceCDL KnowledgeWelding

Job Outlook in Missouri

Nationally, diesel mechanic employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Missouri's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Diesel Mechanic Salary in Missouri

How much does a Diesel Mechanic make in Missouri? ▼
The median diesel mechanic salary in Missouri is $48,752 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $55,400. Salaries range from $30,800 (10th percentile) to $72,160 (90th percentile).
How much does a Diesel Mechanic make per hour in Missouri? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $48,752, a diesel mechanic in Missouri earns approximately $23 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Missouri a good state for diesel mechanics? ▼
Missouri ranks #42 out of 50 states for diesel mechanic pay. The cost of living index is 88% of the national average. Entry-level diesel mechanics earn $32,560, while senior professionals earn $68,640.
How does Missouri compare to other states for diesel mechanic salary? ▼
The highest paying state for diesel mechanics is Hawaii at $94,180. Missouri's median of $48,752 ranks #42 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include South Carolina ($49,306) and Tennessee ($49,306).
What is the entry-level diesel mechanic salary in Missouri? ▼
An entry-level diesel mechanic in Missouri earns approximately $32,560 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $49,280. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $68,640.
What city in Missouri pays diesel mechanics the most? ▼
Kansas City is the highest paying city in Missouri for diesel mechanics, with a median salary of $50,968. Other cities include Saint Louis and Springfield.