Madison vs Wisconsin Rapids: Mechanical Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare mechanical engineer salaries between Madison, WI and Wisconsin Rapids, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Madison, WI | Wisconsin Rapids, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $102,591▲ | $88,279 |
| Hourly Rate | $49.33▲ | $42.44 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $78,260▲ | $67,146 |
| 25th Percentile | $82,964▲ | $71,196 |
| 75th Percentile | $125,140▲ | $108,227 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $137,728▲ | $129,123 |
| Total Employed | 770▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Madison, WI offers better overall compensation for mechanical engineers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Wisconsin Rapids.
The salary gap between Madison and Wisconsin Rapids is $14,312 (16.21%). Madison's median is -4.25% compared to the US national median of $107,150.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Madison spans $59,468,Wisconsin Rapids spans $61,977. Wisconsin Rapids 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, Madison ($105,452 effective) pays 11.57% more than Wisconsin Rapids ($94,517 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Madison if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($102,591/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($137,728)
- ✓Larger job market (770 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $105,452)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Choose Wisconsin Rapids if…
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, mechanical engineer salaries in Madison grew 17.4% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 5.4% growth in Wisconsin Rapids over the same period.
Madison, WI
$84,940 (2019) → $99,680 (2025)
Wisconsin Rapids, WI
$81,354 (2024) → $85,774 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Madison, WI
Wisconsin Rapids, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays mechanical engineers more: Madison or Wisconsin Rapids?
What is the hourly rate difference between Madison and Wisconsin Rapids?
Should I relocate from Madison to Wisconsin Rapids as a mechanical engineer?
What do entry-level mechanical engineers earn in Madison vs Wisconsin Rapids?
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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