Mechanical Engineer Salary in Brea, CA
How much does a mechanical engineer make in Brea? Explore median, entry-level, and senior salaries adjusted for Brea's cost of living.
Salary Breakdown by Experience Level
See how mechanical engineer salaries break down across different pay periods in Brea.
| Period | Entry Level | Median | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $123,318 | $201,421 | $277,468 |
| Monthly | $10,277 | $16,785 | $23,122 |
| Biweekly | $4,743 | $7,747 | $10,672 |
| Weekly | $2,372 | $3,873 | $5,336 |
| Hourly | $59 | $97 | $133 |
Brea vs National Average
How Brea's mechanical engineer salaries compare to national figures.
Cost of Living in Brea
About Mechanical Engineer
Overview
Design, develop, and test mechanical equipment and systems.
Education
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering; PE license recommended
Key Skills
Growth Rate
Expected job growth: +18% over the next decade
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Mechanical Engineer Salary in Brea, CA — Complete Guide
Median Salary Overview
The median salary for a mechanical engineer in Brea, CA is $201,421 per year, adjusted for the local cost of living index of 140. This figure reflects typical earnings for experienced professionals in this role, considering Brea's unique economic conditions.
Salary Range and Experience Levels
Entry-level mechanical engineer professionals in Brea can expect to earn around $123,318 annually. As professionals gain experience, salaries typically increase, with senior-level mechanical engineers earning approximately $277,468 per year. This represents a 125% increase from entry to senior level.
Cost of Living Adjustment
Brea's cost of living index of 140 significantly impacts salary comparisons. As a higher cost-of-living city, salaries in Brea are adjusted accordingly. This means that while the nominal salary may appear higher or lower than the national average of $112,400, the actual purchasing power must be considered in context.
Housing and Affordability
A significant portion of a mechanical engineer's salary in Brea typically goes toward housing. With a 1-bedroom apartment averaging $1,850 per month, housing represents about 11.0% of median salary. Financial experts generally recommend keeping housing expenses below 30% of gross income.
Career Growth and Opportunities
Mechanical Engineers are in growing demand across the United States, with an expected job growth of 18% over the next decade. In Brea, this translates to increasing opportunities and potential for salary growth as demand for experienced professionals continues to rise.