South Dakota ranks 47th of 51 states and D.C. for mechanical engineers pay, trailing top-paying New Mexico ($141,490) by $50,900 — a 56% gap.
The 10th-to-90th percentile range runs from $70,510 to $128,810 — a $58,300 spread, 37% tighter than the national $92,500 range.
Salary Range: 10th to 90th Percentile
Full Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| 10th percentile (entry-level) | $70,510 | $33.90 |
| 25th percentile | $76,800 | $36.92 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $90,590 | $43.55 |
| 75th percentile | $116,600 | $56.06 |
| 90th percentile (top earners) | $128,810 | $61.93 |
| Mean (average) | $96,180 | $46.24 |
How South Dakota Compares
| State | Median Annual | vs. South Dakota |
|---|---|---|
| South Dakota (current) | $90,590 | n/a |
| New Mexico | $141,490 | +56% |
| District of Columbia | $130,000 | +44% |
| Alaska | $129,990 | +43% |
| California | $126,370 | +39% |
| Massachusetts | $122,670 | +35% |
| Wyoming | $116,910 | +29% |
| Rhode Island | $115,270 | +27% |
| Louisiana | $114,050 | +26% |
Showing top-paying states with available data. View all states →
Related Occupations in South Dakota
| Occupation | Median Annual | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Veterinarians | $89,970 | 240 |
| Industrial Engineers | $89,450 | 770 |
| Social Workers, All Other | $89,320 | 140 |
| Physical Therapists | $89,240 | 940 |
| Data Scientists | $92,000 | 270 |
| Electrical Power-Line Installers and Repairers | $92,060 | 810 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average Mechanical Engineers salary in South Dakota?
The mean mechanical engineers salary in South Dakota is $96,180 per year. The median (middle) salary is $90,590 per year.
What is the starting salary for a Mechanical Engineers in South Dakota?
Entry-level mechanical engineerss (10th percentile) in South Dakota typically earn around $70,510 per year. Workers at the 25th percentile earn approximately $76,800 per year.
What is the highest Mechanical Engineers salary in South Dakota?
Top earners (90th percentile) in this occupation in South Dakota make approximately $128,810 per year. Those in the 75th percentile earn around $116,600 per year.
How does the South Dakota Mechanical Engineers salary compare to the national average?
The median mechanical engineers salary in South Dakota is $90,590, which is -11% below national average of $102,320.