Apex vs Greensboro: Mechanical Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare mechanical engineer salaries between Apex, NC and Greensboro, NC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Apex, NC | Greensboro, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $103,615 | $112,739▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $49.81 | $54.21▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $72,677 | $81,008▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $86,182 | $91,444▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $129,965 | $141,042▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $159,471▲ | $141,042 |
| Total Employed | 16 | 1,260▲ |
Verdict
Greensboro, NC offers better overall compensation for mechanical engineers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Apex.
The salary gap between Apex and Greensboro is $9,124 (8.81%). Greensboro's median is +5.22% compared to the US national median of $107,150.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Apex spans $86,794,Greensboro spans $60,034. Apex 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, Greensboro ($121,401 effective) pays 9.67% more than Apex ($110,700 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Apex if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($159,471)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Greensboro if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($112,739/year)
- ✓Larger job market (1,260 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $121,401)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, mechanical engineer salaries in Apex grew 12.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 37.9% growth in Greensboro over the same period.
Apex, NC
$89,520 (2024) → $100,675 (2025)
Greensboro, NC
$79,430 (2019) → $109,540 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Greensboro, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
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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