Simpsonville vs Spartanburg: Mechanical Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare mechanical engineer salaries between Simpsonville, SC and Spartanburg, SC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Simpsonville, SC | Spartanburg, SC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $103,049 | $108,056▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $49.55 | $51.95▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $78,100 | $78,476▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $85,312 | $88,120▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $128,482 | $130,739▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $153,827▲ | $140,136 |
| Total Employed | 5 | 520▲ |
Verdict
Spartanburg, SC offers better overall compensation for mechanical engineers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Simpsonville.
The salary gap between Simpsonville and Spartanburg is $5,007 (4.86%). Spartanburg's median is +0.85% compared to the US national median of $107,150.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Simpsonville spans $75,727,Spartanburg spans $61,660. Simpsonville 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, Spartanburg ($118,676 effective) pays 5.38% more than Simpsonville ($112,622 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Simpsonville if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($153,827)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Spartanburg if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($108,056/year)
- ✓Larger job market (520 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $118,676)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, mechanical engineer salaries in Simpsonville grew 23.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 27.4% growth in Spartanburg over the same period.
Simpsonville, SC
$81,063 (2024) → $100,125 (2025)
Spartanburg, SC
$82,430 (2019) → $104,990 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Simpsonville, SC
Spartanburg, SC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays mechanical engineers more: Simpsonville or Spartanburg?
What is the hourly rate difference between Simpsonville and Spartanburg?
Should I relocate from Simpsonville to Spartanburg as a mechanical engineer?
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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