In Oakland, CA, Mechanical Engineers earn a median of $136,970 a year — about 30% above the U.S. median of $105,220. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #2.
What that pay is worth in Oakland
Local prices run 116 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $143,090 salary buys less than it looks — about $123,766 in national-average buying power.
The Mechanical Engineer pay ladder in Oakland
Entry-level (10th percentile) Mechanical Engineers earn about $83,120; the top 10% reach $196,080 — a $112,960 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 Oakland
Oakland employs roughly 4,700 Mechanical Engineers. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Oakland with other cities
See the full Mechanical Engineer salary by city ranking to weigh Oakland 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 Oakland?
The average Mechanical Engineer in Oakland, CA earns about $143,090 per year, 36.0% above the national average of $105,220.
What is the take-home pay for Mechanical Engineers in Oakland after taxes?
After federal and CA taxes, this $143,090 salary is worth about $99,837 a year - roughly $8,319 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 30%.
What do the highest-paid Mechanical Engineers earn in Oakland?
The top 10% of Mechanical Engineers in Oakland earn about $196,080 a year, versus about $83,120 for the bottom 10%.