Green Bay vs La Crosse: Mechanical Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare mechanical engineer salaries between Green Bay, WI and La Crosse, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Green Bay, WI | La Crosse, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $97,208 | $105,267▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $46.74 | $50.61▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $65,076 | $80,257▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $77,488 | $88,347▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $109,589 | $131,079▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $141,052▲ | $131,655 |
| Total Employed | 460▲ | 190 |
Verdict
Green Bay and La Crosse are closely matched on overall mechanical engineer compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Green Bay and La Crosse is $8,059 (8.29%). La Crosse's median is -1.76% compared to the US national median of $107,150.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Green Bay spans $75,976,La Crosse spans $51,398. Green Bay 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, La Crosse ($114,709 effective) pays 9.84% more than Green Bay ($104,428 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Green Bay if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($141,052)
- ✓Larger job market (460 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Choose La Crosse if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($105,267/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $114,709)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, mechanical engineer salaries in Green Bay grew 17.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 11.7% growth in La Crosse over the same period.
Green Bay, WI
$80,130 (2019) → $94,450 (2025)
La Crosse, WI
$91,570 (2019) → $102,280 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Green Bay, WI
La Crosse, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays mechanical engineers more: Green Bay or La Crosse?
What is the hourly rate difference between Green Bay and La Crosse?
Should I relocate from Green Bay to La Crosse as a mechanical engineer?
What do entry-level mechanical engineers earn in Green Bay vs La Crosse?
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