Mechanical Engineer Salary in Los Angeles
2026 compensation data for Mechanical Engineer positions in Los Angeles, CA. Ranges from $71,000 (entry-level) to $190,000 (senior). Median: $115,000.
Median (Mid)
$115,000
$55.29/hr
vs National
+2%
US: $113,000
COL Index
150
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$190,000
Top of band
Salary Ranges by Experience Level
Detailed Compensation Breakdown
| Level | Annual Min | Annual Median | Annual Max | Hourly (Median) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–2 yrs) | $71,000 | $83,000 | $98,000 | $39.9/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $94,000 | $115,000 | $138,000 | $55.29/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $132,000 | $159,000 | $190,000 | $76.44/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in Los Angeles
A mid-level mechanical engineer earning $115,000 in Los Angeles has the same buying power as $77,000 in an average US city, after adjusting for the local cost of living (COL index 150).
Cost of living comparisons use a base of 100 (US national average). Higher index = higher housing, transport, and consumer prices.
About Mechanical Engineer Salaries in Los Angeles
The median mechanical engineer salary in Los Angeles, CA is $115,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 2% above the national median. With a cost of living index of 150 (national average = 100), Los Angeles offers a high cost of living that partially offsets the salary premium.
Entry-level mechanical engineers in Los Angeles can expect to earn between $71,000 and $98,000 (about $39.9/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $190,000 ($190K annually, or about $91.35/hour).
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 like Los Angeles.
Frequently Asked Questions: Mechanical Engineer Salary in Los Angeles
What is the average Mechanical Engineer salary in Los Angeles?+
The average Mechanical Engineer salary in Los Angeles is $115,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $83,000 and senior-level pay reaches $159,000.
How much does an entry-level mechanical engineer make in Los Angeles?+
Entry-level mechanical engineers in Los Angeles earn between $71,000 and $98,000, with a median of $83,000 per year (about $39.9/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a Mechanical Engineer in Los Angeles?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a Mechanical Engineer in Los Angeles earns roughly $39.9/hour at entry-level, $55.29/hour at mid-level, and $76.44/hour at senior-level.
Is the Mechanical Engineer salary in Los Angeles higher than the US average?+
Yes — Mechanical Engineer salaries in Los Angeles are about 2% higher than the US national median of $113,000.
Does this include bonuses or equity?+
No — these figures are base salary only. Total compensation (base + bonus + equity + benefits) is typically 20–50% higher, and can be 2–3x at top technology and finance employers.
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