Central Falls vs Warwick: Mechanical Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare mechanical engineer salaries between Central Falls, RI and Warwick, RI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Central Falls, RI | Warwick, RI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $99,359 | $116,936▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $47.77 | $56.21▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $76,616 | $82,169▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $83,134 | $93,276▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $122,522 | $149,678▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $146,481 | $181,250▲ |
| Total Employed | 6 | 16▲ |
Verdict
Warwick, RI offers better overall compensation for mechanical engineers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Central Falls.
The salary gap between Central Falls and Warwick is $17,577 (17.69%). Warwick's median is +9.13% compared to the US national median of $107,150.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Central Falls spans $69,865,Warwick spans $99,081. Warwick 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, Warwick ($116,354 effective) pays 17.69% more than Central Falls ($98,865 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Central Falls if…
- ✓You prefer the Rhode Island area and lifestyle
Choose Warwick if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($116,936/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($181,250)
- ✓Larger job market (16 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $116,354)
- ✓You prefer the Rhode Island area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, mechanical engineer salaries in Central Falls grew 2.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 9.7% growth in Warwick over the same period.
Central Falls, RI
$94,583 (2024) → $96,540 (2025)
Warwick, RI
$103,543 (2024) → $113,618 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Central Falls, RI
Warwick, RI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays mechanical engineers more: Central Falls or Warwick?
What is the hourly rate difference between Central Falls and Warwick?
Should I relocate from Central Falls to Warwick as a mechanical engineer?
What do entry-level mechanical engineers earn in Central Falls vs Warwick?
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