Pittsburgh vs Wilkes-Barre: Mechanical Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare mechanical engineer salaries between Pittsburgh, PA and Wilkes-Barre, PA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Pittsburgh, PA | Wilkes-Barre, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $100,913▲ | $95,367 |
| Hourly Rate | $48.52▲ | $45.85 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $67,495 | $68,179▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $82,367▲ | $76,569 |
| 75th Percentile | $127,333▲ | $119,597 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $147,176▲ | $145,305 |
| Total Employed | 3,470▲ | 11 |
Verdict
Pittsburgh, PA offers better overall compensation for mechanical engineers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Wilkes-Barre.
The salary gap between Pittsburgh and Wilkes-Barre is $5,546 (5.82%). Pittsburgh's median is -5.82% compared to the US national median of $107,150.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Pittsburgh spans $79,681,Wilkes-Barre spans $77,126. Pittsburgh 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, Pittsburgh ($106,593 effective) pays 8.87% more than Wilkes-Barre ($97,913 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Pittsburgh if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($100,913/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($147,176)
- ✓Larger job market (3,470 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $106,593)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Choose Wilkes-Barre if…
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, mechanical engineer salaries in Pittsburgh grew 14.4% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -5.2% growth in Wilkes-Barre over the same period.
Pittsburgh, PA
$85,680 (2019) → $98,050 (2025)
Wilkes-Barre, PA
$97,767 (2024) → $92,661 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Pittsburgh, PA
Wilkes-Barre, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays mechanical engineers more: Pittsburgh or Wilkes-Barre?
What is the hourly rate difference between Pittsburgh and Wilkes-Barre?
Should I relocate from Pittsburgh to Wilkes-Barre as a mechanical engineer?
What do entry-level mechanical engineers earn in Pittsburgh vs Wilkes-Barre?
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