In Tucson, AZ, Mechanical Engineers earn a median of $105,160 a year — almost exactly the U.S. median of $105,220. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #11.
What that pay is worth in Tucson
Local prices run 97 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $114,150 salary stretches further than the sticker number — about $117,807 in national-average buying power.
Can Mechanical Engineers afford a home in Tucson?
A typical Tucson home runs about $242,200 — 2.1 times the average Mechanical Engineer salary, very affordable against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,079/mo takes roughly 11% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Mechanical Engineer pay ladder in Tucson
Entry-level (10th percentile) Mechanical Engineers earn about $83,150; the top 10% reach $171,340 — a $88,190 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 Tucson
Tucson employs roughly 1,340 Mechanical Engineers. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Tucson with other cities
See the full Mechanical Engineer salary by city ranking to weigh Tucson 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 Tucson?
The average Mechanical Engineer in Tucson, AZ earns about $114,150 per year, 8.5% above the national average of $105,220.
What is the take-home pay for Mechanical Engineers in Tucson after taxes?
After federal and AZ taxes, this $114,150 salary is worth about $86,489 a year - roughly $7,207 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 24%.
What do the highest-paid Mechanical Engineers earn in Tucson?
The top 10% of Mechanical Engineers in Tucson earn about $171,340 a year, versus about $83,150 for the bottom 10%.
Can Mechanical Engineers afford a home in Tucson?
A typical Tucson home runs about $242,200 - roughly 2.1x this salary, within reach by the classic 3x rule of thumb.