Des Moines vs Kennewick: Mechanical Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare mechanical engineer salaries between Des Moines, WA and Kennewick, WA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Des Moines, WA | Kennewick, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $109,662 | $128,424▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $52.73 | $61.74▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $79,645 | $84,333▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $88,966 | $102,796▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $138,416 | $166,442▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $168,550 | $180,851▲ |
| Total Employed | 7 | 570▲ |
Verdict
Kennewick, WA offers better overall compensation for mechanical engineers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Des Moines.
The salary gap between Des Moines and Kennewick is $18,762 (17.11%). Kennewick's median is +19.85% compared to the US national median of $107,150.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Des Moines spans $88,905,Kennewick spans $96,518. Kennewick 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, Kennewick ($128,323 effective) pays 25.68% more than Des Moines ($102,106 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Des Moines if…
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Choose Kennewick if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($128,424/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($180,851)
- ✓Larger job market (570 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $128,323)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, mechanical engineer salaries in Des Moines grew -15.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 18.7% growth in Kennewick over the same period.
Des Moines, WA
$125,561 (2024) → $106,551 (2025)
Kennewick, WA
$105,160 (2019) → $124,780 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Des Moines, WA
Kennewick, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays mechanical engineers more: Des Moines or Kennewick?
What is the hourly rate difference between Des Moines and Kennewick?
Should I relocate from Des Moines to Kennewick as a mechanical engineer?
What do entry-level mechanical engineers earn in Des Moines vs Kennewick?
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