Des Plaines vs Springfield: Mechanical Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare mechanical engineer salaries between Des Plaines, IL and Springfield, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Des Plaines, IL | Springfield, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $99,996▲ | $95,633 |
| Hourly Rate | $48.07▲ | $45.97 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $71,675▲ | $61,968 |
| 25th Percentile | $78,324 | $79,598▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $126,578▲ | $123,380 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $154,993▲ | $146,332 |
| Total Employed | 12 | 90▲ |
Verdict
Des Plaines, IL offers better overall compensation for mechanical engineers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Springfield.
The salary gap between Des Plaines and Springfield is $4,363 (4.56%). Des Plaines's median is -6.68% compared to the US national median of $107,150.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Des Plaines spans $83,318,Springfield spans $84,364. Springfield 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, Springfield ($103,114 effective) pays 0.13% more than Des Plaines ($102,982 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Des Plaines if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($99,996/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($154,993)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Springfield if…
- ✓Larger job market (90 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $103,114)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, mechanical engineer salaries in Des Plaines grew 1.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -3.0% growth in Springfield over the same period.
Des Plaines, IL
$95,749 (2024) → $97,159 (2025)
Springfield, IL
$95,760 (2019) → $92,920 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Des Plaines, IL
Springfield, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays mechanical engineers more: Des Plaines or Springfield?
What is the hourly rate difference between Des Plaines and Springfield?
Should I relocate from Des Plaines to Springfield as a mechanical engineer?
What do entry-level mechanical engineers earn in Des Plaines vs Springfield?
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