Mechanical Engineers vs. Industrial Engineers: Who Earns More?
Mechanical Engineerss out-earn Industrial Engineerss by $2K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Mechanical Engineerss land at $104,110 and Industrial Engineerss at $102,440. The education gap is real: mechanical engineer programs typically require bachelor's degree, while industrial engineer programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Mechanical Engineerss is New Mexico ($157,710); for Industrial Engineerss it's Alaska ($156,510).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Mechanical Engineers median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Mechanical Engineerss or Industrial Engineerss?
Mechanical Engineerss earn more nationally. The median is $104,110 for Mechanical Engineerss versus $102,440 for Industrial Engineerss, a difference of $2K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Mechanical Engineers or Industrial 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, Mechanical Engineers or Industrial Engineers?
Mechanical Engineers typically requires bachelor's degree. Industrial Engineers requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Mechanical Engineerss get paid the most?
New Mexico is the top-paying state for Mechanical Engineerss at $157,710/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Mechanical Engineers vs. Industrial Engineers pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In New Mexico, Mechanical Engineerss earn $157,710 vs. $128,090 for Industrial Engineerss. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.