In Raleigh, NC, Mechanical Engineers earn a median of $99,560 a year — about 5% below the U.S. median of $105,220. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #25.
What that pay is worth in Raleigh
Local prices run 98 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $101,520 salary is about break-even with the national average ($103,426 adjusted).
Can Mechanical Engineers afford a home in Raleigh?
A typical Raleigh home runs about $377,800 — 3.7 times the average Mechanical Engineer salary, manageable against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,468/mo takes roughly 17% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Mechanical Engineer pay ladder in Raleigh
Entry-level (10th percentile) Mechanical Engineers earn about $64,710; the top 10% reach $140,880 — a $76,170 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 Raleigh
Raleigh employs roughly 1,150 Mechanical Engineers. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Raleigh with other cities
See the full Mechanical Engineer salary by city ranking to weigh Raleigh 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 Raleigh?
The average Mechanical Engineer in Raleigh, NC earns about $101,520 per year, 3.5% below the national average of $105,220.
What is the take-home pay for Mechanical Engineers in Raleigh after taxes?
After federal and NC taxes, this $101,520 salary is worth about $76,707 a year - roughly $6,392 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 24%.
What do the highest-paid Mechanical Engineers earn in Raleigh?
The top 10% of Mechanical Engineers in Raleigh earn about $140,880 a year, versus about $64,710 for the bottom 10%.
Can Mechanical Engineers afford a home in Raleigh?
A typical Raleigh home runs about $377,800 - roughly 3.7x this salary, within reach by the classic 3x rule of thumb.