Mechanical Engineer Salary in Chicago
2026 compensation data for Mechanical Engineer positions in Chicago. Ranges from $65,000 (entry-level) to $173,000 (senior).
Median (Mid)
$105,000
vs National
+2%
COL Index
115
Senior Max
$173,000
Salary Ranges by Experience Level
Detailed Compensation Breakdown
| Level | Minimum | Median | Maximum |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | $65,000 | $76,000 | $89,000 |
| Mid-Level | $86,000 | $105,000 | $126,000 |
| Senior | $121,000 | $145,000 | $173,000 |
About Mechanical Engineer Salaries in Chicago
The median mechanical engineer salary in Chicago is $105,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 2% above the national median. With a cost of living index of 115 (national average = 100), Chicago offers a moderate cost of living with competitive salaries.
Entry-level mechanical engineers in Chicago can expect to earn between $65,000 and $89,000, while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $173,000.
These figures represent base salary only and do not include bonuses, equity, or benefits, which can add 20–50% to total compensation — especially at technology companies and in competitive markets.
Mechanical Engineer Salaries in Other Cities
San Francisco
$135,000
Mid-level median
New York
$128,000
Mid-level median
Seattle
$122,000
Mid-level median
Los Angeles
$115,000
Mid-level median
Austin
$102,000
Mid-level median
Denver
$105,000
Mid-level median
Remote (US)
$95,000
Mid-level median
Boston
$118,000
Mid-level median
Washington D.C.
$120,000
Mid-level median
Atlanta
$100,000
Mid-level median
Dallas
$100,000
Mid-level median
Miami
$108,000
Mid-level median
Phoenix
$95,000
Mid-level median
Minneapolis
$102,000
Mid-level median
Raleigh
$98,000
Mid-level median
Other Roles in Chicago
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