Milwaukee vs Stevens Point: Mechanical Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare mechanical engineer salaries between Milwaukee, WI and Stevens Point, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Milwaukee, WI | Stevens Point, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $101,613▲ | $92,665 |
| Hourly Rate | $48.85▲ | $44.55 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $67,299 | $70,871▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $81,379▲ | $77,526 |
| 75th Percentile | $112,883 | $117,382▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $136,472 | $142,655▲ |
| Total Employed | 2,200▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Milwaukee, WI offers better overall compensation for mechanical engineers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Stevens Point.
The salary gap between Milwaukee and Stevens Point is $8,948 (9.66%). 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 Milwaukee spans $69,173,Stevens Point spans $71,784. Stevens Point 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, Milwaukee ($104,824 effective) pays 5.66% more than Stevens Point ($99,213 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
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
Choose Stevens Point if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($142,655)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, mechanical engineer salaries in Milwaukee grew 22.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 5.4% growth in Stevens Point over the same period.
Milwaukee, WI
$80,390 (2019) → $98,730 (2025)
Stevens Point, WI
$85,397 (2024) → $90,036 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Milwaukee, WI
Stevens Point, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays mechanical engineers more: Milwaukee or Stevens Point?
What is the hourly rate difference between Milwaukee and Stevens Point?
Should I relocate from Milwaukee to Stevens Point as a mechanical engineer?
What do entry-level mechanical engineers earn in Milwaukee vs Stevens Point?
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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