Bettendorf vs Cedar Rapids: Mechanical Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare mechanical engineer salaries between Bettendorf, IA and Cedar Rapids, IA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bettendorf, IA | Cedar Rapids, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $93,656▲ | $87,101 |
| Hourly Rate | $45.03▲ | $41.88 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $70,504▲ | $70,058 |
| 25th Percentile | $77,523 | $79,269▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $119,851▲ | $105,977 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $145,167▲ | $138,921 |
| Total Employed | 10 | 350▲ |
Verdict
Bettendorf, IA offers better overall compensation for mechanical engineers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Cedar Rapids.
The salary gap between Bettendorf and Cedar Rapids is $6,555 (7.53%). Bettendorf's median is -12.59% compared to the US national median of $107,150.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bettendorf spans $74,663,Cedar Rapids spans $68,863. Bettendorf 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, Bettendorf ($103,602 effective) pays 5.82% more than Cedar Rapids ($97,907 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bettendorf if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($93,656/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($145,167)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $103,602)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Choose Cedar Rapids if…
- ✓Larger job market (350 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, mechanical engineer salaries in Bettendorf grew 14.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -1.3% growth in Cedar Rapids over the same period.
Bettendorf, IA
$79,456 (2024) → $90,999 (2025)
Cedar Rapids, IA
$85,720 (2019) → $84,630 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bettendorf, IA
Cedar Rapids, IA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays mechanical engineers more: Bettendorf or Cedar Rapids?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bettendorf and Cedar Rapids?
Should I relocate from Bettendorf to Cedar Rapids as a mechanical engineer?
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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