Northampton vs Springfield: Mechanical Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare mechanical engineer salaries between Northampton, MA and Springfield, MA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Northampton, MA | Springfield, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $108,148▲ | $101,253 |
| Hourly Rate | $52.00▲ | $48.68 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $81,285▲ | $74,123 |
| 25th Percentile | $89,763▲ | $83,396 |
| 75th Percentile | $136,137▲ | $129,257 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $165,618▲ | $148,462 |
| Total Employed | 6 | 290▲ |
Verdict
Northampton, MA offers better overall compensation for mechanical engineers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Springfield.
The salary gap between Northampton and Springfield is $6,895 (6.81%). Northampton's median is +0.93% compared to the US national median of $107,150.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Northampton spans $84,333,Springfield spans $74,339. Northampton 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, Springfield ($105,405 effective) pays 5.75% more than Northampton ($99,676 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Northampton if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($108,148/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($165,618)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Choose Springfield if…
- ✓Larger job market (290 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $105,405)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, mechanical engineer salaries in Northampton grew -14.3% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 11.5% growth in Springfield over the same period.
Northampton, MA
$122,545 (2024) → $105,080 (2025)
Springfield, MA
$88,260 (2019) → $98,380 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Northampton, MA
Springfield, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays mechanical engineers more: Northampton or Springfield?
What is the hourly rate difference between Northampton and Springfield?
Should I relocate from Northampton to Springfield as a mechanical engineer?
What do entry-level mechanical engineers earn in Northampton vs Springfield?
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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