BLS OEWS Data · 2025

Mechanical Engineer Salary in San Diego, CA

Based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Median Annual Salary
$116,600
vs. National Average
+12%
National: $104,110

Salary Range in San Diego

Top 10%$188,000
75th Percentile$149,800
Median (50th)$116,600
25th Percentile$91,000
Bottom 10%$71,800

How Much Does a Mechanical Engineer Make in San Diego, CA?

The median Mechanical Engineer salary in San Diego, CA is $116,600 per year as of 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is 12% higher than the national median of $104,110.

Salaries in San Diego range from $71,800 at the 10th percentile to $188,000 at the 90th percentile. The middle 50% of Mechanical Engineers in San Diego earn between $91,000 and $149,800 per year.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025. Occupation: Mechanical Engineer (SOC 17-2141).

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Mechanical Engineer make in San Diego, CA?

The median Mechanical Engineer salary in San Diego, CA is $116,600 per year as of 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

What is the salary range for a Mechanical Engineer in San Diego?

Mechanical Engineer salaries in San Diego range from $71,800 at the 10th percentile to $188,000 at the 90th percentile. The middle 50% earn between $91,000 and $149,800 per year.

Is San Diego a good place to work as a Mechanical Engineer?

San Diego Mechanical Engineer salaries are 12% higher than the national median. San Diego is an above-average market for Mechanical Engineers.

Where does the salary data come from?

All data comes from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey — the most comprehensive salary database in the United States, covering approximately 830 occupations across 600+ metropolitan areas.