Engineering Rapid City, SD Pop. 74,703

Mechanical Engineer Salary in Rapid City, South Dakota

The median mechanical engineer salary in Rapid City, SD is $86,679 per year, which is 10% below the national median and 2.3% above the South Dakota state average.

City Median
$86,679
vs State Avg
+$1,926
vs National
$-9,631
Cost of Living
90%

Mechanical Engineer Salary in Rapid City by Experience

In Rapid City, an entry-level mechanical engineer earns around $58,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $124,200 per year. The local cost of living index is 90% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$58,500
$-6,500 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$86,400
$-9,600 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$124,200
$-13,800 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Rapid City, SD

Percentile Rapid City
10th Percentile $57,060
25th Percentile $70,920
Median (50th) $86,679
75th Percentile $107,640
90th Percentile $131,580

Mechanical Engineer Salary in Other South Dakota Cities

How to Become a Mechanical Engineer in Rapid City

Education

Most mechanical engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Rapid City and the surrounding South Dakota 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 Rapid City may vary based on local industry and population growth.