Salem vs Springfield: Mechanical Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare mechanical engineer salaries between Salem, MA and Springfield, MA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Salem, MA | Springfield, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $108,001▲ | $101,253 |
| Hourly Rate | $51.92▲ | $48.68 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $82,685▲ | $74,123 |
| 25th Percentile | $90,524▲ | $83,396 |
| 75th Percentile | $132,817▲ | $129,257 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $167,401▲ | $148,462 |
| Total Employed | 8 | 290▲ |
Verdict
Salem, MA offers better overall compensation for mechanical engineers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Springfield.
The salary gap between Salem and Springfield is $6,748 (6.66%). Salem's median is +0.79% compared to the US national median of $107,150.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Salem spans $84,716,Springfield spans $74,339. Salem 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, Springfield ($105,405 effective) pays 5.89% more than Salem ($99,540 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Salem if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($108,001/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($167,401)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Choose Springfield if…
- ✓Larger job market (290 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $105,405)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, mechanical engineer salaries in Salem grew -14.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 11.5% growth in Springfield over the same period.
Salem, MA
$123,360 (2024) → $104,937 (2025)
Springfield, MA
$88,260 (2019) → $98,380 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Springfield, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays mechanical engineers more: Salem or Springfield?
What is the hourly rate difference between Salem and Springfield?
Should I relocate from Salem to Springfield as a mechanical engineer?
What do entry-level mechanical engineers earn in Salem vs Springfield?
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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