Mechanical Engineer Salary in Reading, Pennsylvania
The median mechanical engineer salary in Reading, PA is $84,753 per year, which is 12% below the national median and 8.3% below the Pennsylvania state average.
Mechanical Engineer Pay in Reading: What to Expect (2026)
Reading offers a median mechanical engineer salary of $84,753, which is $7,705 below the Pennsylvania state average of $92,458. Compared to the national median of $96,310, Reading pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Reading's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 88% of the national average. This means the $84,753 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $96,310 in an average-cost city. This makes Reading an attractive option for mechanical engineers seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for mechanical engineers in Reading spans from $55,792 at the 10th percentile to $128,656 at the 90th percentile — a $72,864 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $57,200, while senior mechanical engineers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $121,440. Reading is a smaller market (pop. 95,112), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Mechanical Engineer Salary in Reading by Experience
In Reading, an entry-level mechanical engineer earns around $57,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $121,440 per year. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Reading, PA
| Percentile | Reading |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $55,792 |
| 25th Percentile | $69,344 |
| Median (50th) | $84,753 |
| 75th Percentile | $105,248 |
| 90th Percentile | $128,656 |
Mechanical Engineer Salary in Other Pennsylvania Cities
How to Become a Mechanical Engineer in Reading
Education
Most mechanical engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Reading and the surrounding Pennsylvania 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 Reading may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Reading
Browse open mechanical engineer positions in Reading, PA: