Allentown vs Scranton: Mechanical Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare mechanical engineer salaries between Allentown, PA and Scranton, PA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Allentown, PA | Scranton, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $105,987▲ | $86,370 |
| Hourly Rate | $50.96▲ | $41.53 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $76,068▲ | $65,169 |
| 25th Percentile | $88,202▲ | $72,960 |
| 75th Percentile | $137,553▲ | $105,771 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $165,773▲ | $137,820 |
| Total Employed | 880▲ | 360 |
Verdict
Allentown, PA offers better overall compensation for mechanical engineers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Scranton.
The salary gap between Allentown and Scranton is $19,617 (22.71%). Allentown's median is -1.09% compared to the US national median of $107,150.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Allentown spans $89,705,Scranton spans $72,651. Allentown has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Allentown ($106,021 effective) pays 14.84% more than Scranton ($92,319 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Allentown if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($105,987/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($165,773)
- ✓Larger job market (880 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $106,021)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Choose Scranton if…
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, mechanical engineer salaries in Allentown grew 49.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 23.8% growth in Scranton over the same period.
Allentown, PA
$68,760 (2019) → $102,980 (2025)
Scranton, PA
$67,800 (2019) → $83,920 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Allentown, PA
Scranton, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays mechanical engineers more: Allentown or Scranton?
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Related Comparisons
Written by Amina Patel, PE
Career Analyst
Amina has 10 years of experience in mechanical engineering. She specializes in thermal analysis and works in the automotive industry.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.92% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Amina Patel, PE, a licensed mechanical engineer with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov