Mechanical Engineers Salary in North Carolina
Official Bureau of Labor Statistics Data - May 2024 - NC
Median Annual Salary in North Carolina
$89,568
$43.06 / hour
▼ 7.0% below national avg
National Median
$96,310
$46.30 / hour nationally
COL-Adjusted Purchasing Power
$92,243
Missouri equivalent (COL: 97.1)
Mechanical Engineers Salary in North Carolina
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (Entry Level) | $47,471 |
| 25th Percentile | $64,489 |
| 50th (Median) | $89,568 |
| 75th Percentile | $123,604 |
| 90th (Top Earners) | $154,057 |
| Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS, May 2024 | |
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Cost of Living Adjusted Salary
The North Carolina median salary of $89,568 for Mechanical Engineers has the purchasing power of approximately $92,243 in Missouri (the COL baseline state with index 100).
North Carolina's lower cost of living (COL index: 97.1) means your salary goes further than in higher-cost states.
COL data: MERIC 2024 State Cost of Living Index. Missouri = 100 baseline.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do Mechanical Engineers make in North Carolina?
Mechanical Engineers in North Carolina earn a median annual salary of $89,568 per year ($43.06/hr) according to BLS OEWS data (May 2024). This is below the national median of $96,310.
Is North Carolina a good state for Mechanical Engineers?
North Carolina pays slightly below the national average for mechanical engineers. Cost of living in North Carolina is near the national average (COL index: 97.1).
What is the cost-of-living adjusted salary for Mechanical Engineers in North Carolina?
After adjusting for cost of living (COL index: 97.1 vs. Missouri baseline of 100), the $89,568 salary in North Carolina has the purchasing power of approximately $92,243 in Missouri. Lower living costs in North Carolina increase real purchasing power.
How does North Carolina compare to neighboring states for Mechanical Engineers salaries?
For detailed comparison across all states, see the full Mechanical Engineers salary page at the national level, which includes a complete 50-state salary table.
Top Paying Jobs in North Carolina
| # | Job Title | Median Annual |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Anesthesiologists | $308,946 |
| 2 | Radiologists | $288,226 |
| 3 | Orthopedic Surgeons, Except Pediatric | $284,785 |
| 4 | Neurologists | $274,908 |
| 5 | Surgeons, All Other | $273,904 |
| 6 | Ophthalmologists, Except Pediatric | $252,848 |
| 7 | Psychiatrists | $232,312 |
| 8 | Physicians, Pathologists | $226,846 |
| Source: BLS OEWS May 2024 | ||
About Mechanical Engineers in North Carolina
Mechanical Engineers work in their specialized field applying expertise and skills to deliver value in their organization. This occupation is part of the technology sector of the U.S. economy.
Education Required: Bachelor's degree