Salem vs Worcester: Mechanical Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare mechanical engineer salaries between Salem, MA and Worcester, MA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Salem, MA | Worcester, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $108,001 | $112,440▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $51.92 | $54.06▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $82,685▲ | $76,727 |
| 25th Percentile | $90,524 | $92,968▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $132,817 | $137,275▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $167,401 | $168,717▲ |
| Total Employed | 8 | 660▲ |
Verdict
Worcester, MA offers better overall compensation for mechanical engineers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Salem.
The salary gap between Salem and Worcester is $4,439 (4.11%). Worcester's median is +4.94% 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,Worcester spans $91,990. Worcester 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, Worcester ($109,673 effective) pays 10.18% 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…
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Choose Worcester if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($112,440/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($168,717)
- ✓Larger job market (660 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $109,673)
- ✓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 20.2% growth in Worcester over the same period.
Salem, MA
$123,360 (2024) → $104,937 (2025)
Worcester, MA
$90,880 (2019) → $109,250 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Worcester, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays mechanical engineers more: Salem or Worcester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Salem and Worcester?
Should I relocate from Salem to Worcester as a mechanical engineer?
What do entry-level mechanical engineers earn in Salem vs Worcester?
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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