Mechanical Engineer Salary in Washington D.C.
2026 compensation data for Mechanical Engineer positions in Washington D.C.. Ranges from $74,000 (entry-level) to $198,000 (senior).
Median (Mid)
$120,000
vs National
+2%
COL Index
150
Senior Max
$198,000
Salary Ranges by Experience Level
Detailed Compensation Breakdown
| Level | Minimum | Median | Maximum |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | $74,000 | $86,000 | $102,000 |
| Mid-Level | $98,000 | $120,000 | $144,000 |
| Senior | $138,000 | $166,000 | $198,000 |
About Mechanical Engineer Salaries in Washington D.C.
The median mechanical engineer salary in Washington D.C. is $120,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 2% above the national median. With a cost of living index of 150 (national average = 100), Washington D.C. offers a higher cost of living that partially offsets the salary premium.
Entry-level mechanical engineers in Washington D.C. can expect to earn between $74,000 and $102,000, while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $198,000.
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
Chicago
$105,000
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
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 Washington D.C.
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