Ann Arbor vs Dearborn Heights: Mechanical Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare mechanical engineer salaries between Ann Arbor, MI and Dearborn Heights, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Ann Arbor, MI | Dearborn Heights, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $131,027▲ | $101,349 |
| Hourly Rate | $63.00▲ | $48.72 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $78,950▲ | $69,855 |
| 25th Percentile | $101,232▲ | $79,511 |
| 75th Percentile | $135,896▲ | $126,199 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $165,228▲ | $157,092 |
| Total Employed | 2,280▲ | 13 |
Verdict
Ann Arbor, MI offers better overall compensation for mechanical engineers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Dearborn Heights.
The salary gap between Ann Arbor and Dearborn Heights is $29,678 (29.28%). Ann Arbor's median is +22.28% compared to the US national median of $107,150.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Ann Arbor spans $86,278,Dearborn Heights spans $87,237. Dearborn Heights has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced mechanical engineers.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Ann Arbor ($129,884 effective) pays 19.44% more than Dearborn Heights ($108,744 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Ann Arbor if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($131,027/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($165,228)
- ✓Larger job market (2,280 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $129,884)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Dearborn Heights if…
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, mechanical engineer salaries in Ann Arbor grew 33.4% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 7.9% growth in Dearborn Heights over the same period.
Ann Arbor, MI
$95,430 (2019) → $127,310 (2025)
Dearborn Heights, MI
$91,265 (2024) → $98,474 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Ann Arbor, MI
Dearborn Heights, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays mechanical engineers more: Ann Arbor or Dearborn Heights?
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What do entry-level mechanical engineers earn in Ann Arbor vs Dearborn Heights?
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