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

Diesel Mechanic Salary in Rhode Island

The median diesel mechanic salary in Rhode Island is $58,170 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median of $55,400.

Median Salary
$58,170
vs National
+$2,770
State Rank
#13 of 50
Cost of Living
105%

Diesel Mechanic Salary Overview in Rhode Island (2026)

Rhode Island ranks #13 out of 50 states for diesel mechanic compensation. Rhode Island falls in the middle of the pack for diesel mechanic pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $58,170 per year, diesel mechanics in Rhode Island earn $2,770 more than the national median of $55,400.

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

The salary spread in Rhode Island is significant: diesel mechanics at the 10th percentile earn $36,750, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $86,100 — a $49,350 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 $59,832.

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 Rhode Island by Experience

In Rhode Island, an entry-level diesel mechanic earns around $38,850, while experienced professionals earn up to $81,900 per year. The cost of living index in Rhode Island is 105% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$38,850
+$1,850 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$58,800
+$2,800 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$81,900
+$3,900 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Rhode Island

Percentile RI Salary
10th Percentile $36,750
25th Percentile $45,150
Median (50th) $58,170
75th Percentile $72,450
90th Percentile $86,100

Diesel Mechanic Salary by City in Rhode Island

The largest employment areas for diesel 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 Diesel Mechanic in Rhode Island

Education

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

Key Skills

Diesel EnginesHydraulic SystemsElectrical DiagnosticsPreventive MaintenanceCDL KnowledgeWelding

Job Outlook in Rhode Island

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

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Frequently Asked Questions: Diesel Mechanic Salary in Rhode Island

How much does a Diesel Mechanic make in Rhode Island? ▼
The median diesel mechanic salary in Rhode Island is $58,170 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median of $55,400. Salaries range from $36,750 (10th percentile) to $86,100 (90th percentile).
How much does a Diesel Mechanic make per hour in Rhode Island? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $58,170, a diesel mechanic in Rhode Island earns approximately $28 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Rhode Island a good state for diesel mechanics? ▼
Rhode Island ranks #13 out of 50 states for diesel mechanic pay. The cost of living index is 105% of the national average. Entry-level diesel mechanics earn $38,850, while senior professionals earn $81,900.
How does Rhode Island compare to other states for diesel mechanic salary? ▼
The highest paying state for diesel mechanics is Hawaii at $94,180. Rhode Island's median of $58,170 ranks #13 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Colorado ($58,170) and New Hampshire ($58,170).
What is the entry-level diesel mechanic salary in Rhode Island? ▼
An entry-level diesel mechanic in Rhode Island earns approximately $38,850 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $58,800. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $81,900.
What city in Rhode Island pays diesel mechanics the most? ▼
Providence is the highest paying city in Rhode Island for diesel mechanics, with a median salary of $59,832. Other cities include Warwick and Cranston.