Industrial Engineers vs. Mechanical Engineers: Who Earns More?
Mechanical Engineerss out-earn Industrial Engineerss by $2K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Industrial Engineerss land at $102,440 and Mechanical Engineerss 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 Engineerss is Alaska ($156,510); for Mechanical Engineerss 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 Engineerss or Mechanical Engineerss?
Mechanical Engineerss earn more nationally. The median is $102,440 for Industrial Engineerss versus $104,110 for Mechanical Engineerss, a difference of $2K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Industrial Engineers or Mechanical Engineers?
BLS Employment Projections data is not available for one or both occupations. Check the individual career pages for current outlook figures.
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 Engineerss get paid the most?
Alaska is the top-paying state for Industrial Engineerss 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 Engineerss earn $156,510 vs. $124,340 for Mechanical Engineerss. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.