Cincinnati vs Akron: Mechanical Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare mechanical engineer salaries between Cincinnati, OH and Akron, OH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Cincinnati, OH | Akron, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $107,263▲ | $100,779 |
| Hourly Rate | $51.57▲ | $48.45 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $78,518▲ | $68,565 |
| 25th Percentile | $84,353▲ | $80,905 |
| 75th Percentile | $136,359▲ | $110,989 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $173,441▲ | $132,870 |
| Total Employed | 3,310▲ | 1,000 |
Verdict
Cincinnati, OH offers better overall compensation for mechanical engineers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Akron.
The salary gap between Cincinnati and Akron is $6,484 (6.43%). Cincinnati's median is +0.11% compared to the US national median of $107,150.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Cincinnati spans $94,923,Akron spans $64,305. Cincinnati 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, Cincinnati ($112,470 effective) pays 4.20% more than Akron ($107,935 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Cincinnati if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($107,263/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($173,441)
- ✓Larger job market (3,310 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $112,470)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Choose Akron if…
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, mechanical engineer salaries in Cincinnati grew 23.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 18.3% growth in Akron over the same period.
Cincinnati, OH
$84,150 (2019) → $104,220 (2025)
Akron, OH
$82,770 (2019) → $97,920 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Cincinnati, OH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays mechanical engineers more: Cincinnati or Akron?
What is the hourly rate difference between Cincinnati and Akron?
Should I relocate from Cincinnati to Akron as a mechanical engineer?
What do entry-level mechanical engineers earn in Cincinnati vs Akron?
Related Comparisons
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