Engineering San Diego, CA Pop. 1,386,932

Mechanical Engineer Salary in San Diego, California

The median mechanical engineer salary in San Diego, CA is $136,760 per year, which is 42.0% above the national median and 2.9% above the California state average.

City Median
$136,760
vs State Avg
+$3,852
vs National
+$40,450
Cost of Living
142%

Mechanical Engineer Salary in San Diego by Experience

In San Diego, an entry-level mechanical engineer earns around $92,300, while experienced professionals earn up to $195,960 per year. The local cost of living index is 142% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$92,300
+$27,300 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$136,320
+$40,320 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$195,960
+$57,960 vs national

Salary Percentiles in San Diego, CA

Percentile San Diego
10th Percentile $90,028
25th Percentile $111,896
Median (50th) $136,760
75th Percentile $169,832
90th Percentile $207,604

Mechanical Engineer Salary in Other California Cities

How to Become a Mechanical Engineer in San Diego

Education

Most mechanical engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. San Diego and the surrounding California area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

SolidWorks/CADThermodynamicsFEAManufacturingMaterials SciencePE License

Job Outlook

Nationally, mechanical engineer employment is projected to grow 2% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in San Diego may vary based on local industry and population growth.