Mechanical Engineer Salary in Salem, Oregon
The median mechanical engineer salary in Salem, OR is $98,236 per year, which is 2.0% above the national median and 7.3% below the Oregon state average.
Mechanical Engineer Pay in Salem: What to Expect (2026)
Salem offers a median mechanical engineer salary of $98,236, which is $7,705 below the Oregon state average of $105,941. Compared to the national median of $96,310, Salem pays above average for this role.
Salem's cost of living is 102% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for mechanical engineers in Salem spans from $64,668 at the 10th percentile to $149,124 at the 90th percentile — a $84,456 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $66,300, while senior mechanical engineers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $140,760. With a population of 175,535, Salem is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Mechanical Engineer Salary in Salem by Experience
In Salem, an entry-level mechanical engineer earns around $66,300, while experienced professionals earn up to $140,760 per year. The local cost of living index is 102% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Salem, OR
| Percentile | Salem |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $64,668 |
| 25th Percentile | $80,376 |
| Median (50th) | $98,236 |
| 75th Percentile | $121,992 |
| 90th Percentile | $149,124 |
Mechanical Engineer Salary in Other Oregon Cities
How to Become a Mechanical Engineer in Salem
Education
Most mechanical engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Salem and the surrounding Oregon area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, mechanical engineer employment is projected to grow 2% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Salem may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Salem
Browse open mechanical engineer positions in Salem, OR: