Mechanical Engineer Salary in Chicago, IL
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Engineering · COL Index: 107.3
$100,390
Median Salary
$107,040
Mean Salary
$93,560
COL-Adjusted
6,050
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $67,490 | $62,898 |
| 25th Percentile | $81,600 | $76,048 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $100,390 | $93,560 |
| 75th Percentile | $127,210 | $118,555 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $150,430 | $140,196 |
What Drives the Range
The $82,940 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Mechanical Engineer positions in Chicago, IL reflects several factors. Entry-level professionals and those in smaller organizations typically fall in the lower quartiles, while senior specialists, those with in-demand certifications, and employees at large enterprises command salaries in the upper percentiles.
Chicago, IL's cost-of-living index of 107.3 means that a $100,390 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $93,560 in an average-cost U.S. city. The relatively moderate cost of living makes this a competitive market for purchasing power.