Mechanical Engineers Salary in Boston, MA-NH

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Boston-Cambridge-Newton, MA-NH

Median annual salary $124,160 +21.3% vs national
Median hourly $59.69
10th percentile $79,970
90th percentile $168,720
Employed locally 8,050
National median $102,320

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Mechanical Engineers
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Boston, MA-NH
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    In Boston, MA-NH, a mechanical engineer typically earns a median annual salary of $124,160, which is higher than the national median of $102,320 for this occupation. This local median reflects a strong demand for engineering skills in the region. Compared to the area's median household income of $112,484, mechanical engineers enjoy significantly higher earnings, indicating their specialized skill set commands premium compensation. The salary structure showcases that while some workers earn as low as $79,970 (10th percentile), others achieve up to $168,720 (90th percentile), illustrating a broad range of earning potential within the field.

    Entry-level mechanical engineers in Boston start at around the 25th percentile with salaries near $98,970, reflecting initial skills and experience levels. As these professionals gain expertise and take on more complex projects or leadership roles, their earnings can rise to the 75th percentile mark of approximately $138,380, and even further for those reaching the top 10% at $168,720. Several factors drive this salary progression, including years of experience, specialized skills, education level, project complexity, and performance in high-demand industries like aerospace or renewable energy. This trajectory underscores how gaining expertise and adapting to industry needs can substantially enhance earning potential over time.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $79,970
    25th
    $98,970
    50th (median)
    $124,160
    75th
    $138,380
    90th
    $168,720

    Boston economic context

    Unemployment rate 3.70% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $112,484 2023 • Census ACS
    Mechanical Engineers salary vs area income 110% Median Mechanical Engineers salary is 10% above the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Mechanical Engineers make per hour in Boston?

    The median hourly wage for Mechanical Engineers in Boston, MA-NH is $59.69, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $80.24 or more per hour.

    Is Boston above or below average for Mechanical Engineers salaries?

    The median Mechanical Engineers salary in Boston, MA-NH is 21.3% above the national median of $102,320. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Mechanical Engineers in Boston?

    Entry-level Mechanical Engineers (10th percentile) earn around $79,970 per year in Boston, MA-NH. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $98,970.