What is a good salary for a Marine Engineer?

In 2026, a good Marine Engineer salary is around $108K (the national median). $132K+ is great (top 25%), and $158K+ is top-tier (top 10%). Earning below $88K is under market โ€” worth a negotiation.

Below market< $88K

Under the 25th percentile โ€” grounds to negotiate.

Decent$88Kโ€“$108K

Solid for early-career or lower-cost areas.

Good$108Kโ€“$132K

At/above the median โ€” a genuinely good salary.

Great / top$132K+

Top quartile; $158K+ is top 10%.

Common questions

What is a good salary for a Marine Engineer in 2026?

A good Marine Engineer salary is around $108K (the national median). $132K+ is great (top 25%) and $158K+ is top-tier (top 10%). Anything below $88K is under market for the role.

What is a high salary for a Marine Engineer?

$132K puts you in the top quartile; $158K or more is top-10% pay for a Marine Engineer. Reaching it usually means senior level, in-demand skills, or a high-cost metro.

Does a good Marine Engineer salary depend on location?

Yes โ€” the same number goes much further in a low-cost city. Use the cost-of-living check to see what a salary is really worth where you live.

Percentiles from BLS-anchored national data; a good salary also depends on cost of living and your level.

What Is a Good Salary for a Marine Engineer? (2026) | Official Salary