Huron vs Sioux Falls: Mechanical Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare mechanical engineer salaries between Huron, SD and Sioux Falls, SD. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Huron, SD | Sioux Falls, SD |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $91,701▲ | $88,244 |
| Hourly Rate | $44.09▲ | $42.42 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $70,636▲ | $65,179 |
| 25th Percentile | $76,671 | $78,703▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $114,974▲ | $108,509 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $135,108 | $136,122▲ |
| Total Employed | 5 | 190▲ |
Verdict
Huron and Sioux Falls are closely matched on overall mechanical engineer compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Huron and Sioux Falls is $3,457 (3.92%). Huron's median is -14.42% compared to the US national median of $107,150.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Huron spans $64,472,Sioux Falls spans $70,943. Sioux Falls has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced mechanical engineers.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Huron ($98,816 effective) pays 1.49% more than Sioux Falls ($97,366 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Huron if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($91,701/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $98,816)
- ✓You prefer the South Dakota area and lifestyle
Choose Sioux Falls if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($136,122)
- ✓Larger job market (190 employed)
- ✓You prefer the South Dakota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, mechanical engineer salaries in Huron grew 22.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 13.5% growth in Sioux Falls over the same period.
Huron, SD
$72,744 (2024) → $89,099 (2025)
Sioux Falls, SD
$75,560 (2019) → $85,740 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Sioux Falls, SD
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays mechanical engineers more: Huron or Sioux Falls?
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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