In Fresno, CA, Mechanical Engineers earn a median of $95,030 a year — about 10% below the U.S. median of $105,220. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #38.
What that pay is worth in Fresno
Local prices run 102 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $100,080 salary buys less than it looks — about $97,966 in national-average buying power.
Can Mechanical Engineers afford a home in Fresno?
A typical Fresno home runs about $348,500 — 3.5 times the average Mechanical Engineer salary, manageable against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,324/mo takes roughly 16% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Mechanical Engineer pay ladder in Fresno
Entry-level (10th percentile) Mechanical Engineers earn about $61,810; the top 10% reach $150,930 — a $89,120 spread, wide for this field. Most of that gap comes down to experience, employer, and how hard you negotiate.
The Mechanical Engineer job market in Fresno
Fresno employs roughly 270 Mechanical Engineers. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Fresno with other cities
See the full Mechanical Engineer salary by city ranking to weigh Fresno against the other metros on both pay and cost-adjusted value, or use the cost-of-living calculator to compare any two cities directly.
Frequently asked questions
How much do Mechanical Engineers make in Fresno?
The average Mechanical Engineer in Fresno, CA earns about $100,080 per year, 4.9% below the national average of $105,220.
What is the take-home pay for Mechanical Engineers in Fresno after taxes?
After federal and CA taxes, this $100,080 salary is worth about $74,005 a year - roughly $6,167 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 26%.
What do the highest-paid Mechanical Engineers earn in Fresno?
The top 10% of Mechanical Engineers in Fresno earn about $150,930 a year, versus about $61,810 for the bottom 10%.
Can Mechanical Engineers afford a home in Fresno?
A typical Fresno home runs about $348,500 - roughly 3.5x this salary, within reach by the classic 3x rule of thumb.