Automotive & Maintenance Portland, OR Pop. 652,503

Diesel Mechanic Salary in Portland, Oregon

The median diesel mechanic salary in Portland, OR is $65,372 per year, which is 18.0% above the national median and 7.3% above the Oregon state average.

City Median
$65,372
vs State Avg
+$4,432
vs National
+$9,972
Cost of Living
118%

Diesel Mechanic Pay in Portland: What to Expect (2026)

Portland offers a median diesel mechanic salary of $65,372, which is $4,432 above the Oregon state average of $60,940. Compared to the national median of $55,400, Portland pays above average for this role.

However, Portland's cost of living index is 118%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $65,372 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $55,400. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Portland should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.

The salary range for diesel mechanics in Portland spans from $41,300 at the 10th percentile to $96,760 at the 90th percentile — a $55,460 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $43,660, while senior diesel mechanics with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $92,040. As a major metro area with a population of 652,503, Portland typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.

Diesel Mechanic Salary in Portland by Experience

In Portland, an entry-level diesel mechanic earns around $43,660, while experienced professionals earn up to $92,040 per year. The local cost of living index is 118% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$43,660
+$6,660 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$66,080
+$10,080 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$92,040
+$14,040 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Portland, OR

Percentile Portland
10th Percentile $41,300
25th Percentile $50,740
Median (50th) $65,372
75th Percentile $81,420
90th Percentile $96,760

Diesel Mechanic Salary in Other Oregon Cities

How to Become a Diesel Mechanic in Portland

Education

Most diesel mechanic positions require a high school diploma. Portland and the surrounding Oregon 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 Portland may vary based on local industry and population growth.

Find Diesel Mechanic Jobs in Portland

Browse open diesel mechanic positions in Portland, OR:

Frequently Asked Questions: Diesel Mechanic Salary in Portland

How much does a Diesel Mechanic make in Portland, OR? ▼
The median diesel mechanic salary in Portland, Oregon is $65,372 per year, which is 18.0% above the national median of $55,400. Salaries range from $41,300 (10th percentile) to $96,760 (90th percentile).
How much does a Diesel Mechanic make per hour in Portland? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $65,372, a diesel mechanic in Portland earns approximately $31 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
How does Portland compare to the Oregon state average for diesel mechanic pay? ▼
Portland's median diesel mechanic salary of $65,372 is 7.3% above the Oregon state average of $60,940. The local cost of living index is 118% of the national average.
What is the cost of living in Portland, OR? ▼
Portland has a cost of living index of 118% compared to the national average. This means a diesel mechanic salary of $65,372 in Portland has less purchasing power than the same salary in an average-cost city.
What qualifications do I need to become a diesel mechanic in Portland? ▼
Most diesel mechanic positions in Portland 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.