Mechanical Engineer Salary in Knoxville, Tennessee
The median mechanical engineer salary in Knoxville, TN is $84,753 per year, which is 12% below the national median and 1.1% below the Tennessee state average.
Mechanical Engineer Pay in Knoxville: What to Expect (2026)
Knoxville offers a median mechanical engineer salary of $84,753, which is $963 below the Tennessee state average of $85,716. Compared to the national median of $96,310, Knoxville pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Knoxville'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 Knoxville an attractive option for mechanical engineers seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for mechanical engineers in Knoxville 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. With a population of 190,740, Knoxville is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Mechanical Engineer Salary in Knoxville by Experience
In Knoxville, 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 Knoxville, TN
| Percentile | Knoxville |
|---|---|
| 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 Tennessee Cities
How to Become a Mechanical Engineer in Knoxville
Education
Most mechanical engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Knoxville and the surrounding Tennessee 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 Knoxville may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Knoxville
Browse open mechanical engineer positions in Knoxville, TN: