Edina vs Rochester: Mechanical Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare mechanical engineer salaries between Edina, MN and Rochester, MN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Edina, MN | Rochester, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $96,613 | $99,935▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $46.45 | $48.04▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $69,250 | $79,465▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $77,789 | $84,353▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $123,665 | $133,631▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $149,751▲ | $144,510 |
| Total Employed | 11 | 120▲ |
Verdict
Rochester, MN offers better overall compensation for mechanical engineers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Edina.
The salary gap between Edina and Rochester is $3,322 (3.44%). Rochester's median is -6.73% compared to the US national median of $107,150.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Edina spans $80,501,Rochester spans $65,045. Edina 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, Rochester ($110,035 effective) pays 12.18% more than Edina ($98,084 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Edina if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($149,751)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Choose Rochester if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($99,935/year)
- ✓Larger job market (120 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $110,035)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, mechanical engineer salaries in Edina grew -3.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 32.8% growth in Rochester over the same period.
Edina, MN
$97,130 (2024) → $93,872 (2025)
Rochester, MN
$73,100 (2019) → $97,100 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Rochester, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays mechanical engineers more: Edina or Rochester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Edina and Rochester?
Should I relocate from Edina to Rochester as a mechanical engineer?
What do entry-level mechanical engineers earn in Edina vs Rochester?
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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