Florence vs Phoenix: Mechanical Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare mechanical engineer salaries between Florence, AZ and Phoenix, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Florence, AZ | Phoenix, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $98,609 | $103,929▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $47.40 | $49.97▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $69,586 | $72,023▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $78,192 | $84,816▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $122,712 | $133,168▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $152,843 | $164,590▲ |
| Total Employed | 5 | 3,660▲ |
Verdict
Phoenix, AZ offers better overall compensation for mechanical engineers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Florence.
The salary gap between Florence and Phoenix is $5,320 (5.40%). Phoenix's median is -3.01% compared to the US national median of $107,150.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Florence spans $83,257,Phoenix spans $92,567. Phoenix 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, Phoenix ($100,593 effective) pays 0.48% more than Florence ($100,111 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Florence if…
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Choose Phoenix if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($103,929/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($164,590)
- ✓Larger job market (3,660 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $100,593)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, mechanical engineer salaries in Florence grew -2.3% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 7.6% growth in Phoenix over the same period.
Florence, AZ
$98,076 (2024) → $95,811 (2025)
Phoenix, AZ
$93,850 (2019) → $100,980 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Florence, AZ
Phoenix, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays mechanical engineers more: Florence or Phoenix?
What is the hourly rate difference between Florence and Phoenix?
Should I relocate from Florence to Phoenix as a mechanical engineer?
What do entry-level mechanical engineers earn in Florence vs Phoenix?
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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