Mechanical Engineer Salary in San Francisco, CA
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Engineering · COL Index: 179.6
$145,640
Median Salary
$150,900
Mean Salary
$81,091
COL-Adjusted
4,670
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $97,070 | $54,048 |
| 25th Percentile | $121,510 | $67,656 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $145,640 | $81,091 |
| 75th Percentile | $177,430 | $98,792 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $207,610 | $115,596 |
What Drives the Range
The $110,540 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Mechanical Engineer positions in San Francisco, 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 Francisco, CA's cost-of-living index of 179.6 means that a $145,640 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $81,091 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.