In Sacramento, CA, Mechanical Engineers earn a median of $118,050 a year — about 12% above the U.S. median of $105,220. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #7.
What that pay is worth in Sacramento
Local prices run 107 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $118,130 salary buys less than it looks — about $110,743 in national-average buying power.
Can Mechanical Engineers afford a home in Sacramento?
A typical Sacramento home runs about $484,600 — 4.1 times the average Mechanical Engineer salary, manageable against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,694/mo takes roughly 17% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Mechanical Engineer pay ladder in Sacramento
Entry-level (10th percentile) Mechanical Engineers earn about $71,930; the top 10% reach $164,670 — a $92,740 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 Sacramento
Sacramento employs roughly 1,020 Mechanical Engineers. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Sacramento with other cities
See the full Mechanical Engineer salary by city ranking to weigh Sacramento 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 Sacramento?
The average Mechanical Engineer in Sacramento, CA earns about $118,130 per year, 12.3% above the national average of $105,220.
What is the take-home pay for Mechanical Engineers in Sacramento after taxes?
After federal and CA taxes, this $118,130 salary is worth about $85,024 a year - roughly $7,085 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 28%.
What do the highest-paid Mechanical Engineers earn in Sacramento?
The top 10% of Mechanical Engineers in Sacramento earn about $164,670 a year, versus about $71,930 for the bottom 10%.
Can Mechanical Engineers afford a home in Sacramento?
A typical Sacramento home runs about $484,600 - roughly 4.1x this salary, within reach by the classic 3x rule of thumb.