Engineering Kansas (KS) Rank #45 of 50

Mechanical Engineer Salary in Kansas

The median mechanical engineer salary in Kansas is $83,790 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $96,310.

Median Salary
$83,790
vs National
$-12,520
State Rank
#45 of 50
Cost of Living
87%

Mechanical Engineer Salary Overview in Kansas (2026)

Kansas ranks #45 out of 50 states for mechanical engineer compensation. Mechanical Engineer salaries in Kansas are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $83,790 per year, mechanical engineers in Kansas earn $12,520 less than the national median of $96,310.

A key advantage of working in Kansas is its below-average cost of living (87% of the national index). This means the $83,790 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $96,310 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in Kansas is significant: mechanical engineers at the 10th percentile earn $55,158, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $127,194 — a $72,036 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Kansas for this role is Overland Park, where the median reaches $92,458.

Nationally, mechanical engineer employment is projected to grow 2% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for mechanical engineers across the country.

Mechanical Engineer Salary in Kansas by Experience

In Kansas, an entry-level mechanical engineer earns around $56,550, while experienced professionals earn up to $120,060 per year. The cost of living index in Kansas is 87% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$56,550
$-8,450 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$83,520
$-12,480 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$120,060
$-17,940 vs national

Build Wealth on Your Income

With a $83,790 income, financial advisors recommend investing 15–20% annually. Start building a diversified portfolio with as little as $10.

See Investment Options →

Salary Percentiles in Kansas

Percentile KS Salary
10th Percentile $55,158
25th Percentile $68,556
Median (50th) $83,790
75th Percentile $104,052
90th Percentile $127,194

Mechanical Engineer Salary by City in Kansas

The largest employment areas for mechanical engineers in Kansas include Wichita, Overland Park, Kansas City, and Topeka. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Mechanical Engineer in Kansas

Education

Most mechanical engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Kansas has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

SolidWorks/CADThermodynamicsFEAManufacturingMaterials SciencePE License

Job Outlook in Kansas

Nationally, mechanical engineer employment is projected to grow 2% over the next decade (as fast as average). Kansas's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay

Data shows Mechanical Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $36,270 over your career trajectory.

Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →

Open to Mechanical Engineer Roles in Kansas?

Get matched with recruiters hiring mechanical engineers in Kansas at competitive salaries.

Or browse positions directly:

Frequently Asked Questions: Mechanical Engineer Salary in Kansas

How much does a Mechanical Engineer make in Kansas? ▼
The median mechanical engineer salary in Kansas is $83,790 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $96,310. Salaries range from $55,158 (10th percentile) to $127,194 (90th percentile).
How much does a Mechanical Engineer make per hour in Kansas? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $83,790, a mechanical engineer in Kansas earns approximately $40 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Kansas a good state for mechanical engineers? ▼
Kansas ranks #45 out of 50 states for mechanical engineer pay. The cost of living index is 87% of the national average. Entry-level mechanical engineers earn $56,550, while senior professionals earn $120,060.
How does Kansas compare to other states for mechanical engineer salary? ▼
The highest paying state for mechanical engineers is Hawaii at $163,727. Kansas's median of $83,790 ranks #45 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include South Dakota ($84,753) and Alabama ($83,790).
What is the entry-level mechanical engineer salary in Kansas? ▼
An entry-level mechanical engineer in Kansas earns approximately $56,550 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $83,520. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $120,060.
What city in Kansas pays mechanical engineers the most? ▼
Overland Park is the highest paying city in Kansas for mechanical engineers, with a median salary of $92,458. Other cities include Wichita and Kansas City.