Engineering New Mexico (NM) Rank #29 of 50

Marine Engineer Salary in New Mexico

The median marine engineer salary in New Mexico is $90,126 per year, which is 7% below the national median of $96,910.

Median Salary
$90,126
vs National
$-6,784
State Rank
#29 of 50
Cost of Living
93%

Marine Engineer Salary Overview in New Mexico (2026)

New Mexico ranks #29 out of 50 states for marine engineer compensation. Marine Engineer salaries in New Mexico are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $90,126 per year, marine engineers in New Mexico earn $6,784 less than the national median of $96,910.

A key advantage of working in New Mexico is its below-average cost of living (93% of the national index). This means the $90,126 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $96,910 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in New Mexico is significant: marine engineers at the 10th percentile earn $53,940, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $141,360 — a $87,420 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in New Mexico for this role is Santa Fe, where the median reaches $106,601.

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 Mexico by Experience

In New Mexico, an entry-level marine engineer earns around $57,660, while experienced professionals earn up to $134,850 per year. The cost of living index in New Mexico is 93% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$57,660
$-4,340 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$91,140
$-6,860 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$134,850
$-10,150 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in New Mexico

Percentile NM Salary
10th Percentile $53,940
25th Percentile $70,680
Median (50th) $90,126
75th Percentile $115,320
90th Percentile $141,360

Marine Engineer Salary by City in New Mexico

The largest employment areas for marine engineers in New Mexico include Albuquerque, Las Cruces, Rio Rancho, and Santa Fe. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Marine Engineer in New Mexico

Education

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

Key Skills

Naval ArchitectureMarine SystemsCADPropulsionMaritime LawProject Management

Job Outlook in New Mexico

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

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Data shows Marine Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $44,724 over your career trajectory.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Marine Engineer Salary in New Mexico

How much does a Marine Engineer make in New Mexico? ▼
The median marine engineer salary in New Mexico is $90,126 per year, which is 7% below the national median of $96,910. Salaries range from $53,940 (10th percentile) to $141,360 (90th percentile).
How much does a Marine Engineer make per hour in New Mexico? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $90,126, a marine engineer in New Mexico earns approximately $43 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is New Mexico a good state for marine engineers? ▼
New Mexico ranks #29 out of 50 states for marine engineer pay. The cost of living index is 93% of the national average. Entry-level marine engineers earn $57,660, while senior professionals earn $134,850.
How does New Mexico compare to other states for marine engineer salary? ▼
The highest paying state for marine engineers is Hawaii at $164,747. New Mexico's median of $90,126 ranks #29 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Idaho ($91,095) and Georgia ($90,126).
What is the entry-level marine engineer salary in New Mexico? ▼
An entry-level marine engineer in New Mexico earns approximately $57,660 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $91,140. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $134,850.
What city in New Mexico pays marine engineers the most? ▼
Santa Fe is the highest paying city in New Mexico for marine engineers, with a median salary of $106,601. Other cities include Albuquerque and Las Cruces.