Mechanical Engineer Salary in San Diego, CA
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Engineering · COL Index: 160.2
$128,660
Median Salary
$127,210
Mean Salary
$80,312
COL-Adjusted
3,320
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $84,120 | $52,509 |
| 25th Percentile | $101,590 | $63,414 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $128,660 | $80,312 |
| 75th Percentile | $142,470 | $88,933 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $170,840 | $106,642 |
What Drives the Range
The $86,720 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Mechanical Engineer positions in San Diego, CA 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.
San Diego, CA's cost-of-living index of 160.2 means that a $128,660 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $80,312 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.