La Crosse vs Milwaukee: Mechanical Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare mechanical engineer salaries between La Crosse, WI and Milwaukee, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | La Crosse, WI | Milwaukee, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $105,267▲ | $101,613 |
| Hourly Rate | $50.61▲ | $48.85 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $80,257▲ | $67,299 |
| 25th Percentile | $88,347▲ | $81,379 |
| 75th Percentile | $131,079▲ | $112,883 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $131,655 | $136,472▲ |
| Total Employed | 190 | 2,200▲ |
Verdict
La Crosse and Milwaukee are closely matched on overall mechanical engineer compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between La Crosse and Milwaukee is $3,654 (3.60%). 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 La Crosse spans $51,398,Milwaukee spans $69,173. Milwaukee 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, La Crosse ($114,709 effective) pays 9.43% more than Milwaukee ($104,824 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose La Crosse if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($105,267/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $114,709)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Choose Milwaukee if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($136,472)
- ✓Larger job market (2,200 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, mechanical engineer salaries in La Crosse grew 11.7% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 22.8% growth in Milwaukee over the same period.
La Crosse, WI
$91,570 (2019) → $102,280 (2025)
Milwaukee, WI
$80,390 (2019) → $98,730 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
La Crosse, WI
Milwaukee, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays mechanical engineers more: La Crosse or Milwaukee?
What is the hourly rate difference between La Crosse and Milwaukee?
Should I relocate from La Crosse to Milwaukee as a mechanical engineer?
What do entry-level mechanical engineers earn in La Crosse vs Milwaukee?
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