Wilson vs Winston: Mechanical Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare mechanical engineer salaries between Wilson, NC and Winston, NC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Wilson, NC | Winston, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $98,662▲ | $98,392 |
| Hourly Rate | $47.44▲ | $47.30 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $74,819▲ | $64,387 |
| 25th Percentile | $82,071▲ | $79,917 |
| 75th Percentile | $126,288▲ | $117,339 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $151,137▲ | $141,381 |
| Total Employed | 7 | 480▲ |
Verdict
Wilson, NC offers better overall compensation for mechanical engineers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Winston.
The salary gap between Wilson and Winston is $270 (0.27%). Wilson's median is -7.92% compared to the US national median of $107,150.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Wilson spans $76,318,Winston spans $76,994. Winston 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, Winston ($106,898 effective) pays 1.41% more than Wilson ($105,408 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Wilson if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($98,662/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($151,137)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Winston if…
- ✓Larger job market (480 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $106,898)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, mechanical engineer salaries in Wilson grew 12.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 12.1% growth in Winston over the same period.
Wilson, NC
$85,242 (2024) → $95,863 (2025)
Winston, NC
$85,300 (2019) → $95,600 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Wilson, NC
Winston, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays mechanical engineers more: Wilson or Winston?
What is the hourly rate difference between Wilson and Winston?
Should I relocate from Wilson to Winston as a mechanical engineer?
What do entry-level mechanical engineers earn in Wilson vs Winston?
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