Engineering New Jersey (NJ) Rank #6 of 50

Marine Engineer Salary in New Jersey

The median marine engineer salary in New Jersey is $111,446 per year, which is 15.0% above the national median of $96,910.

Median Salary
$111,446
vs National
+$14,536
State Rank
#6 of 50
Cost of Living
115%

Marine Engineer Salary Overview in New Jersey (2026)

New Jersey ranks #6 out of 50 states for marine engineer compensation. This places New Jersey in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for marine engineers seeking high pay. At $111,446 per year, marine engineers in New Jersey earn $14,536 more than the national median of $96,910.

It's worth noting that New Jersey's cost of living is 115% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $111,446 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $96,910.

The salary spread in New Jersey is significant: marine engineers at the 10th percentile earn $66,700, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $174,800 — a $108,100 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in New Jersey for this role is Jersey City, where the median reaches $124,045.

Nationally, marine engineer employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for marine engineers across the country.

Marine Engineer Salary in New Jersey by Experience

In New Jersey, an entry-level marine engineer earns around $71,300, while experienced professionals earn up to $166,750 per year. The cost of living index in New Jersey is 115% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$71,300
+$9,300 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$112,700
+$14,700 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$166,750
+$21,750 vs national

You May Qualify for Premium Rewards

Professionals earning $111,446+ often qualify for premium rewards cards with $500+ signup bonuses and 2–5% cashback on every purchase.

View Offers You Qualify For →

Salary Percentiles in New Jersey

Percentile NJ Salary
10th Percentile $66,700
25th Percentile $87,400
Median (50th) $111,446
75th Percentile $142,600
90th Percentile $174,800

Marine Engineer Salary by City in New Jersey

The largest employment areas for marine engineers in New Jersey include Newark, Jersey City, Paterson, and Elizabeth. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Marine Engineer in New Jersey

Education

Most marine engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. New Jersey has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Naval ArchitectureMarine SystemsCADPropulsionMaritime LawProject Management

Job Outlook in New Jersey

Nationally, marine engineer employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). New Jersey's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay

Data shows Marine Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $55,304 over your career trajectory.

Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →

Open to Marine Engineer Roles in New Jersey?

Get matched with recruiters hiring marine engineers in New Jersey at competitive salaries.

Or browse positions directly:

Frequently Asked Questions: Marine Engineer Salary in New Jersey

How much does a Marine Engineer make in New Jersey? ▼
The median marine engineer salary in New Jersey is $111,446 per year, which is 15.0% above the national median of $96,910. Salaries range from $66,700 (10th percentile) to $174,800 (90th percentile).
How much does a Marine Engineer make per hour in New Jersey? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $111,446, a marine engineer in New Jersey earns approximately $54 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is New Jersey a good state for marine engineers? ▼
New Jersey ranks #6 out of 50 states for marine engineer pay. The cost of living index is 115% of the national average. Entry-level marine engineers earn $71,300, while senior professionals earn $166,750.
How does New Jersey compare to other states for marine engineer salary? ▼
The highest paying state for marine engineers is Hawaii at $164,747. New Jersey's median of $111,446 ranks #6 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Alaska ($120,168) and New York ($118,230).
What is the entry-level marine engineer salary in New Jersey? ▼
An entry-level marine engineer in New Jersey earns approximately $71,300 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $112,700. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $166,750.
What city in New Jersey pays marine engineers the most? ▼
Jersey City is the highest paying city in New Jersey for marine engineers, with a median salary of $124,045. Other cities include Newark and Paterson.