Hernando vs Jackson: Mechanical Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare mechanical engineer salaries between Hernando, MS and Jackson, MS. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Hernando, MS | Jackson, MS |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $86,446▲ | $83,674 |
| Hourly Rate | $41.56▲ | $40.23 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $61,856 | $64,027▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $72,508▲ | $64,027 |
| 75th Percentile | $108,602▲ | $103,095 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $130,681 | $137,913▲ |
| Total Employed | 6 | 230▲ |
Verdict
Hernando and Jackson are closely matched on overall mechanical engineer compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Hernando and Jackson is $2,772 (3.31%). Hernando's median is -19.32% compared to the US national median of $107,150.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Hernando spans $68,825,Jackson spans $73,886. Jackson 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, Hernando ($100,870 effective) pays 7.35% more than Jackson ($93,965 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Hernando if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($86,446/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $100,870)
- ✓You prefer the Mississippi area and lifestyle
Choose Jackson if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($137,913)
- ✓Larger job market (230 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Mississippi area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, mechanical engineer salaries in Hernando grew 22.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -10.5% growth in Jackson over the same period.
Hernando, MS
$68,576 (2024) → $83,993 (2025)
Jackson, MS
$90,810 (2019) → $81,300 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Hernando, MS
Jackson, MS
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays mechanical engineers more: Hernando or Jackson?
What is the hourly rate difference between Hernando and Jackson?
Should I relocate from Hernando to Jackson as a mechanical engineer?
What do entry-level mechanical engineers earn in Hernando vs Jackson?
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