The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported in March of 2021 that the average pay for auto, aviation, and diesel mechanics increased in 2020. This is good news for mechanics and anyone looking to enter the field. We gathered information about the top paying areas with the highest demand for mechanics below.
Why Become a Mechanic?
Employment opportunities are expected to be good for mechanics because there will be a need to replace workers leaving the occupation. Demand for mechanics is also growing. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 5% growth for aviation mechanics through 2029, which is faster than average growth for all occupations.
Auto Mechanic Salary Information
In 2020, BLS reported that auto mechanics earned on average $46,760. The state with the most employed mechanics and the highest pay last year was California. The metropolitan areas with the highest demand were:
- Fairbanks, AK
- Homosassa Springs, FL
- Waterbury, CT
The state with the overall highest demand in 2020 for auto mechanics was Alaska. In 2020 the largest industry employers for auto mechanics were Automobile Dealers and Automotive Repair and Maintenance businesses.
Aviation Mechanic Salary Information
Aircraft mechanics earned on average $69,040 in 2020. The state of Texas employed the most aircraft mechanics last year. Aircraft mechanics in Rhode Island were the highest paid, earning $86,670 in 2020. Metropolitan areas with the highest demand were:
- California/Lexington Park, MD
- Warner Robins, GA
- New Bern, NC
Alaska had the overall highest demand for aviation mechanics in 2020. The industries that employed the most aviation mechanics were Support Activities for Air Transportation and Scheduled Air Transportation.
Diesel Mechanic Salary Information
Diesel mechanics earned an average $52,090 in 2020. The state with the highest amount of diesel mechanics was Texas, while Alaska had the highest average annual pay at $63,710. The metropolitan areas with the highest demand were:
- Odessa, TX
- Danville, IL
- Laredo, TX
Wyoming experienced the overall highest demand for diesel mechanics in 2020. The largest industry employers for diesel mechanics in 2020 were Truck Transportation and Automotive Repair and Maintenance businesses.
Find Mechanic Training
Interested in starting your mechanic career? If the rising salaries are any indication, there has never been a better time to find mechanic training. If you are interested in vehicles, engines, and working with your hands, a career as a mechanic may be right for you.
