Industrial Engineers vs. Mechanical Engineers: Who Earns More?
Mechanical Engineers out-earn Industrial Engineers by $2K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Industrial Engineers land at $102,440 and Mechanical Engineers at $104,110. The education gap is real: industrial engineer programs typically require bachelor's degree, while mechanical engineer programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Industrial Engineers is Alaska ($156,510); for Mechanical Engineers it's New Mexico ($157,710).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Industrial Engineers median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Industrial Engineers or Mechanical Engineers?
Mechanical Engineers earn more nationally. The median is $102,440 for Industrial Engineers versus $104,110 for Mechanical Engineers, a difference of $2K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Industrial Engineers or Mechanical Engineers?
Industrial Engineers has the better 10-year outlook at 11% projected growth, compared to 9.1% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Industrial Engineers or Mechanical Engineers?
Industrial Engineers typically requires bachelor's degree. Mechanical Engineers requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Industrial Engineers get paid the most?
Alaska is the top-paying state for Industrial Engineers at $156,510/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Industrial Engineers vs. Mechanical Engineers pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Alaska, Industrial Engineers earn $156,510 vs. $124,340 for Mechanical Engineers. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.