Beloit vs Milwaukee: Mechanical Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare mechanical engineer salaries between Beloit, WI and Milwaukee, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Beloit, WI | Milwaukee, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $96,501 | $101,613▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $46.40 | $48.85▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $67,348▲ | $67,299 |
| 25th Percentile | $81,920▲ | $81,379 |
| 75th Percentile | $119,696▲ | $112,883 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $144,502▲ | $136,472 |
| Total Employed | 5 | 2,200▲ |
Verdict
Milwaukee, WI offers better overall compensation for mechanical engineers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Beloit.
The salary gap between Beloit and Milwaukee is $5,112 (5.30%). Milwaukee's median is -5.17% compared to the US national median of $107,150.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Beloit spans $77,154,Milwaukee spans $69,173. Beloit has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Milwaukee ($104,824 effective) pays 1.46% more than Beloit ($103,320 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Beloit if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($144,502)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Choose Milwaukee if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($101,613/year)
- ✓Larger job market (2,200 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $104,824)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, mechanical engineer salaries in Beloit grew 8.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 22.8% growth in Milwaukee over the same period.
Beloit, WI
$86,264 (2024) → $93,763 (2025)
Milwaukee, WI
$80,390 (2019) → $98,730 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Beloit, WI
Milwaukee, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays mechanical engineers more: Beloit or Milwaukee?
What is the hourly rate difference between Beloit and Milwaukee?
Should I relocate from Beloit to Milwaukee as a mechanical engineer?
What do entry-level mechanical engineers earn in Beloit vs Milwaukee?
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Written by Amina Patel, PE
Career Analyst
Amina has 10 years of experience in mechanical engineering. She specializes in thermal analysis and works in the automotive industry.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.92% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Amina Patel, PE, a licensed mechanical engineer with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov