New Iberia vs Shreveport: Mechanical Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare mechanical engineer salaries between New Iberia, LA and Shreveport, LA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | New Iberia, LA | Shreveport, LA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $106,627▲ | $103,239 |
| Hourly Rate | $51.26▲ | $49.64 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $78,805▲ | $73,444 |
| 25th Percentile | $87,179▲ | $78,507 |
| 75th Percentile | $135,240 | $136,987▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $161,187 | $179,266▲ |
| Total Employed | 7 | 110▲ |
Verdict
New Iberia and Shreveport are closely matched on overall mechanical engineer compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between New Iberia and Shreveport is $3,388 (3.28%). New Iberia's median is -0.49% compared to the US national median of $107,150.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in New Iberia spans $82,382,Shreveport spans $105,822. Shreveport 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, Shreveport ($121,793 effective) pays 3.14% more than New Iberia ($118,081 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose New Iberia if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($106,627/year)
- ✓You prefer the Louisiana area and lifestyle
Choose Shreveport if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($179,266)
- ✓Larger job market (110 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $121,793)
- ✓You prefer the Louisiana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, mechanical engineer salaries in New Iberia grew 31.6% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 30.9% growth in Shreveport over the same period.
New Iberia, LA
$78,698 (2024) → $103,602 (2025)
Shreveport, LA
$76,630 (2019) → $100,310 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
New Iberia, LA
Shreveport, LA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays mechanical engineers more: New Iberia or Shreveport?
What is the hourly rate difference between New Iberia and Shreveport?
Should I relocate from New Iberia to Shreveport as a mechanical engineer?
What do entry-level mechanical engineers earn in New Iberia vs Shreveport?
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