Barberton vs Cleveland: Mechanical Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare mechanical engineer salaries between Barberton, OH and Cleveland, OH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Barberton, OH | Cleveland, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $95,336 | $100,059▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $45.83 | $48.10▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $70,812▲ | $69,111 |
| 25th Percentile | $78,208 | $81,060▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $119,117▲ | $110,073 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $144,533▲ | $139,055 |
| Total Employed | 6 | 2,300▲ |
Verdict
Cleveland, OH offers better overall compensation for mechanical engineers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Barberton.
The salary gap between Barberton and Cleveland is $4,723 (4.95%). Cleveland's median is -6.62% compared to the US national median of $107,150.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Barberton spans $73,721,Cleveland spans $69,944. Barberton 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, Cleveland ($106,533 effective) pays 1.35% more than Barberton ($105,111 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Barberton if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($144,533)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Choose Cleveland if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($100,059/year)
- ✓Larger job market (2,300 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $106,533)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, mechanical engineer salaries in Barberton grew 9.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 21.8% growth in Cleveland over the same period.
Barberton, OH
$84,395 (2024) → $92,631 (2025)
Cleveland, OH
$79,840 (2019) → $97,220 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Barberton, OH
Cleveland, OH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays mechanical engineers more: Barberton or Cleveland?
What is the hourly rate difference between Barberton and Cleveland?
Should I relocate from Barberton to Cleveland as a mechanical engineer?
What do entry-level mechanical engineers earn in Barberton vs Cleveland?
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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