Mechanical Engineer Salary in Portland, OR
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Engineering · COL Index: 130.1
$103,010
Median Salary
$110,260
Mean Salary
$79,178
COL-Adjusted
2,650
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $76,600 | $58,878 |
| 25th Percentile | $91,190 | $70,092 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $103,010 | $79,178 |
| 75th Percentile | $126,570 | $97,287 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $144,970 | $111,430 |
What Drives the Range
The $68,370 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Mechanical Engineer positions in Portland, OR 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.
Portland, OR's cost-of-living index of 130.1 means that a $103,010 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $79,178 in an average-cost U.S. city. Despite the higher cost of living, this metro area offers a deep talent pool and typically higher total compensation when including equity and bonuses.